Surrounded by the gorgeous Yorkshire countryside; there are many places to explore when visiting Huddersfield. If you’re visiting for the first time, you may not know what there is to do near Huddersfield. Well, we’ve got you covered! From hikes to Christmas markets, below is a list of places you should definitely explore this winter while visiting the beautiful corner of West Yorkshire.
Marsden Moor
Located in the South Pennines, Marsden Moor is one of the best attractions near Huddersfield when you want a bit of peace and quiet. Ideal for a hike; there are many different trails to choose from. You have the option to do your own thing, alternatively there are also guided walks available for you to book. You’ll be greeted by stunning scenery that you can’t get anywhere else. In some parts of the moors you can find sheep and cows. It’s also a breeding ground for birds, perfect for any avid bird watchers or nature fans.
Meet Santa At Cannon Hall Farm
Perfect for a family day out, Cannon Hall Farm has been named the Best Large Visitor Attraction in the White Rose Awards. Home to a wide variety of animals from cows to llamas; they’ll be something for the whole family to enjoy, including an outdoor playground as well as the chance to bet on the sheep racing. What are you waiting for? Book your tickets today for a wholesome family day out.
For things to see in Huddersfield with more of a Christmas theme, Cannon Hall Farm doesn’t disappoint! From November 22nd 2025 all the way up to Christmas Eve, you can visit Santa’s grotto. Ride Santa’s magical elevator and meet his elves, reindeer and the man himself! This is a magical experience that you won’t want to miss out on this winter!
Castle Hill
Another one of the places to visit in Huddersfield is Castle Hill which offers stunning views; you can also climb to the top of Victoria Tower, you can find Christmas opening hours here. Castle Hill is a designated local nature reserve, featuring lots of footpaths inviting you to observe the wildlife up close.
Ogden Water Country Park
If you’re looking to destress, taking a visit to Ogden Water Country Park could be just the place for you to unwind while being surrounded by woodland paths waiting to be explored. Going for a relaxing walk, feeding the ducks or even bringing your own picnic, there’s plenty to see, which is why over 300,000 people visit every year. The visitor centre is open to those who would like to warm up and grab a coffee on a cold day, so it’s a great place to visit no matter the weather.
Gaddings Dam
Gaddings Dam is the not so secret beach, just 45 minutes away from Huddersfield, located on top of the moors between Todmorden and Walsden. An excellent spot for dog walking, just be sure to wrap up warm!
Christmas in Huddersfield
If you’re in town and looking for things to do in winter, make sure you head into the centre for Christmas in Huddersfield on the 29th November 2025. Not only is this event a fantastic way to get you into the Christmas spirit, but best of all, everything is free! From 11am to 4:30pm there will be skating, face painting, creative workshops and more! Not only that but Huddesfield’s Christmas market will be open from 12pm to 8pm in St. Peter’s Gardens on Byram Street, where there’ll be local traders, tasty festive food and a tipi-style beer tent!
As dusk falls, the town centre shifts into something even more magical. Crowds gather on New Street for the “Merry & Bright Moment”, where everyone is given strings of lights and invited to form a glowing chain through the streets. You can even bring your own lanterns or festive lights too, which is perfect if you’ve joined one of the lantern-making workshops beforehand. Straight after that, St Peter’s Gardens is transformed into a festive fire garden, with flaming beacons, a mechanical fire sculpture and firelit trees creating a cosy backdrop for carols and Christmas songs. It feels like a real celebration of Huddersfield’s town centre and a lovely way to round off a winter’s day before you head back to somewhere warm and cosy for the night!
Visit The Pantomime
Nothing gets you more into the Christmas spirit than going to the pantomime! Lawrence Batley Theatre puts on an amazing show every year, and this winter? Beauty and The Beast! If you’re looking for things to do in winter for the whole family, this will create a wonderful memory that you and your loved ones will look back on with joy. Catch the show from 1st December 2025 to the 4th January 2026… You won’t want to miss it!
Christmas Workshops
One of the best things to do in Huddersfield this winter is to take part in some seasonal workshops to get you into the festive spirit! This is a great activity to do with family, creating a fun memory you will cherish for many Christmases to come. Christmas wreath workshops are a popular choice and luckily, Huddersfield hosts a variety of these throughout the winter months. The Lawrence Batley Theatre is hosting a Chrstmas wreath workshop on December 6th giving you the chance to take home your creation to proudly display on your front door. Enjoy some mince pies and get creative!
That’s not all! The Lawrence Batley Theatre also has a Christmas family crafting workshop, where you get to take part in creating homemade decorations. From personalised ornaments to festive cards, indulge in your creativity whilst getting into the festive spirit. Enjoy Christmas music, mince pies and a chance to bond with your friends and family white you create something magical!
The Piece Hall: Yorkshire’s Most Important Secular Building
The Piece Hall is a historic building in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England that was originally built as a cloth hall in 1779 and has been repurposed as a cultural and heritage attraction. Visitors can explore the building’s history through tours, visit the various shops and restaurants, enjoy art exhibitions, festivals and events, and relax in the courtyard. The stunning and historic building also offers guided tours of the surrounding area, an education centre, and a variety of cultural events. It’s a great destination for those interested in history, architecture, culture, and the arts.
Book Plover Cottage Today
If you’re thinking about visiting our corner of West Yorkshire this winter, whilst there are plenty of things to see in Huddersfield. Why not stay with Plover Cottage? Our accommodation offers a cosy ambience, creating the feeling of a home away from home. We have a fantastic environment for a winter stay, with our ideal location close to some of the best things to do in Huddersfield paired with our inviting atmosphere, we are a perfect destination for you to rest your head after a fun day of exploring our town. Want to experience all the best things to do in Huddersfield this winter? Book your stay with Plover Cottage today, where you will be guaranteed to have an amazing visit.