Scouting an Improved Mirfield Diversion

Heading into Mirfield from Bradly, the canal towpath must be abandoned near the new housing estate, as the towpath is impassable. Previously we had followed the southern blue path all the way, which in the hot weather involves a long hot urban0desert walk along the side of the train lines, with no breeze.

Last week, we discovered a canal-based route following the purple path.

New northerly (purple) towpath based route

It is not shorter, but I expect more pleasant in the heat. It joins the blue route close to Lidl -- useful for toilets, and also for supplies. It is a great place to get some restorative frozen snacks, water, or other supplies -- the build is air-conditioned, so just a stroll around temptations aisles does wonders to recharge failing stamina. 

Pit-stop LIDL

There is still quite an urban diversion that is not to be avoided. I believe there once was a better river route as shown, over a now absent bridge, whose stanchion remains to hint what once was there.

 The visible route on the east side doesn't continue north-west for long, and leads to Huddersfield Road which must be followed until Wood Lane bridge when the towpath on the south can be re-joined (not a good route).