The Queer spring walk

🌈 Todmorden Spring Queer Walk

Part of the Queer Spring Event Weekend

Join us for a guided, welcoming Spring walk for LGBTQ+ folks, creating a relaxed space for connection, fresh air, and gentle adventure in the local landscape.

We’ll begin and end at Todmorden Unitarian Church, which will act as our base for introductions, a toilet stop, and a warm drink before and after the walk.

Route:

Starting at Todmorden Unitarian Church, we’ll walk through the church grounds and woodland, then head up the country lanes and across farmland towards Gaddings Dam (Tod’s Beach) – often described as the highest beach in England. We’ll take time at the dam to rest, take in the views, and check in as a group.

From there, we’ll return on a circular route, coming back down through Badger Wood and finishing with a gentle stretch along the Rochdale Canal back to the Unitarian Church for a hot drink and debrief.

This walk creates a gentle space for connection – with each other, with like-minded queer folks, and with the landscape we’re moving through.

Distance & time:

• Approx. 5.5–6 km (around 3.5 miles)
• Walking time: ~2–2.5 hours
• Total time including stops: ~3–3.5 hours

What to expect:

• Mixed terrain: woodland paths, country lanes, farmland tracks, and canal towpath
• Some uphill sections on the way up to Gaddings Dam
• A supportive, inclusive pace with regular pauses
• A relaxed, affirming space for queer people to walk together in nature

What to bring:

Sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and anything you need to feel comfortable on a few hours’ walk.