Holmfirth and the Holme Valley

All photos on this page by Jean Shires

What to do, where to go, where to eat…

There are leaflets in the cottage and some recommendations here, but we strongly suggest visiting Holmfirth Tourist Information Centre which is situated in the library near the traffic lights on Huddersfield Road. The award-winning team are extremely helpful and knowledgeable.

Places to eat

There are plenty of places to eat out in the evening in Holmfirth and some phone numbers are listed below, but we personally recommend Poppa Piccolino's Italian Restaurant off the car park opposite the library (child friendly), and Bengal Spice at the bottom of Dunford Road.

During the daytime call in at Sid's Cafe by Holmfirth Parish Church where Nora enjoyed many a chinwag with her pal Ivy (incidentally, actresses Kathy Staff and Jane Freeman were great friends in real life). Sid and Ivy are no longer there, of course, but the famous cafe is now run by local lass Laura Booth with great cakes made on the premises.

The Wrinkled Stocking Tea Rooms next door to the cottage was founded by pioneering champion of Holmfirth tourism, Dorothy Gregg. It has recently been taken over by Den and Jackie, and we are sure they would appreciate your support.

A selection of Holmfirth Restaurants within walking distance of Nora Batty's cottage (in no particular order, and there are more):

Mezze 01484 681311 (Middle Eastern)
Poppa Piccolinos 01484 688121 (Italian)
Bengal Spice 01484 683882 (Bengali)
Compo's Takeaway & Restaurant 01484 686040 (Fish and chips)
Catch 01484 689635 (Seafood)
Shimla 01484 680742 (Indian)
Little Siam 01484 680040 (Thai)
Whippet & Pickle 01484 443910 (English)

A short drive away:

The New Bengal 01484 689941 (Asian)
Mustard & Punch (English)
Blue Tiger 01484 667000 (Asian)

Things to do... places to go.

Spectacular Scenery
Alan J Bell and the other film directors on Last of the Summer Wine always made much of the spectacular pennine scenery of the Holme Valley and the special charms of the historic town of Holmfirth. It can be bleak. Grim up north and all that, so bring your brollies. But it can also be glorious. Brilliant sunshine, breathtaking vistas, magical golden light and dramatic, fast-changing skies.

The Derbyshire Peak District begins just a few miles to the south, and the views from the border crossing at Holme Moss are stupendous.

Lots to discover
As well as quiet side roads, there are numerous footpaths, bridlepaths and cycleways all around Holmfirth. Whether on foot, by bicycle or in a motor car, get out and about in the countryside and enjoy the panoramic views and the pleasure of discovery.

Real Yorkshire character
Holmfirth is close to Derbyshire, and to Manchester, yet it couldn't be more Yorkshire in character. A former mill town built primarily on the textile industry in 18th and 19th centuries, it is 'real' and gritty, yet simultaneously modern, friendly and welcoming. And in the everyday goings-on of the locals, and in the rhythms of their ordinary conversations, echoes can still be felt of the fantastical world of Compo Simmonite, Norman Clegg and Foggy Dewhurst, not forgetting Blamire, Seymour, Truly and the rest of the gang.

Summer Wine bus tour
A must for both casual and ardent Summer Wine fans, the Summer Wine bus tour departs from the lay-by outside the Parish Church, and is the very best way to become familiar with the various filming locations in and around the town.

Kirklees Light Railway
Ideal for younger children, Kirklees Light Railway is just a short drive away in Clayton West, and offers rides on small-scale steam engines. or travel A little further east to Pugney's Water Park which offers windsurfing, pedaloes, kayaks, canoes, or just a pleasant lakeside walk.

Meltham Golf Club
Closer to Holmfirth, Meltham Golf Club welcomes visitors, although please phone ahead to book.

Cultural Attractions
Cannon Hall country house is worth a visit, and its attractions include a children's farm. Not far away is the National Mining Museum (it's the pits!), and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is also in the vicinity (take your walking boots), and while we are out Barnsley-way, we always enjoy a good look around Cawthorne Antiques Centre which has featured on BBC's Bargain Hunt.

Evening Entertainment
For evening entertainment there is often live music at the Picturedrome in the centre of Holmfirth, and the Penistone Paramount offers a delightfully retro cinematic experience.

Vibrant Holmfirth
Holmfirth's vibrant town centre is home to pubs and restaurants, and also several festivals.