Sustrans’ Spen Valley Greenway is part of the National Cycle Network and runs seven miles from Dewsbury to Oakenshaw near Cleckheaton. It is a wonderful green corridor running through densely population urban areas, passing a wildlife reserve and rolling golf course and with long-distance moorland views along the way.
Rob Winslade is the path warden on Sustrans’ Spen Valley Greenway, and no one knows this route better than him:
‘My favourite part of the Greenway is the middle section. Sculptor Sally Matthew created a flock of ‘Swaledale Sheep’ which are displayed more or less centrally along the 6-mile stretch. These include 11 sheep and goats created from scrap metal and are very impressive.’
The Jo Cox Community Wood is also close by with several benches and seats where you can admire the burgeoning wood. The Sunflower pot Café on the Greenway, near to the Headlands Road/Halifax Road entrance, is a popular refuelling spot for cyclists and walkers and is open most days (check their facebook page for details).
To the south you can access to Dewsbury Country Park directly from the Greenway. It is a haven for wildlife and very popular with local dog owners.
Discover more at www.sustrans.org.uk/find-a-route-on-the-national-cycle-network/spen-valley-greenway/