The Rochdale Canal runs 32 miles from Manchester to Sowerby Bridge across the watershed of the Pennines, climbing through 91 locks — among the densest stretches of canal-locking anywhere in Britain. The whole canal closed in 1952 but reopened in 2002 after a vast restoration effort.
The towpath between Hebden Bridge and Todmorden is one of the best stretches for casual walking: flat, scenic, and lined with narrowboats moored against the stone-built backs of mill towns. Cyclists are also welcome (with care for pedestrians) and the canal connects neatly with the Pennine Bridleway and the train stations at both ends, making linear walks easy.