The Colne Valley villages of Marsden, Slaithwaite and Golcar are nestled amongst 5500 acres of National Trust Moorland with their roots firmly in the industrial past. But don't be fooled, these are thoroughly modern villages, where contemporary arts and craft stores sit perfectly alongside country pubs and farm shops.
Start your journey in the village of Marsden, where you can wander alongside the waters-edge and retrace ancient pack-horse trails. Take a short walk along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal to the impressive Standedge Tunnel and Visitor Centre*. Take a boat ride and travel into the depths of the longest, highest and deepest tunnel where your guide will bring to life the story of how the tunnel was built with little more than picks, shovels and gunpowder. Once your feet are firmly back on the ground, take a look at the interactive exhibitions.
* Guided trips into the tunnel must be pre-booked as times are limited.
The centre of Marsden has a number of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered; small art galleries and craft shops nestled side by side with independent stores and cafés selling a range of goodies to tempt you.
For something a little different enjoy lunch onboard a canal boat at Moonraker Floating Tearooms in the nearby village of Slaithwaite.
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Move on to the Colne Valley Museum, Golcar, and discover what life was like in the early 1850s as you wander around its three weavers' cottages. Visit the loom chamber, gas lit clogger's shop and see frequent demonstrations of traditional crafts such as the baking of bread and making of marmalade.
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Spend the evening at Titanic Spa*, Linthwaite, it's the perfect place to rendezvous with friends for a relaxing evening or when you want to give yourself a little treat. The evening runs from 6pm until 9pm with canapes and a glass of champagne on arrival and the choice of one treatment.
* Group bookings must be made in advance.
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