Join photographer Charlie Meecham for a day exploring the extraordinary landscape of the South Pennines, the inspiration behind his photography and the stories behind some of his most iconic images.
Part of IOU’s Active Hub programme, Capturing Atmosphere brings together photography, walking and conversation, with opportunities to take your own photographs along the way.
All walks are optional. One free ticket covers the event – simply select which walk or talk you intend to join when booking.
09:45 – IOU Hostel | Exhibition & Welcome
Meet at the Hostel, view Charlie’s South Pennine Series exhibition and hear an introduction to the day.
10:15 – Guided Walk to the Blue Pig (Optional)
A 1.5-mile walk, supported by Sowerby Walkers & Ramblers .. Allow approximately one hour.
11:45 – Blue Pig | Midgehole Photowalk (Optional)
Meet at the Blue Pig, Midgehole, HX7 7AL. Explore two photographic locations with Charlie, with opportunities to take your own photographs. Approximately 3 miles, taking two hours.
13:45 – Return to the Blue Pig
Return for refreshments and the artist talk.
14:00 – Blue Pig | Charlie Meecham Artist Talk
An illustrated talk about Charlie’s photography, the Calder Valley, Atmosphere and his 50-year history with IOU.
15:30 – Guided Walk Back to IOU Hostel (Optional)
A 1.5-mile return walk to Hebden Bridge.
By 17:00 – Finish at IOU Hostel
Walking distances and difficulty
There are three optional walking sections:
IOU Hostel to the Blue Pig: 1.5 miles.
Midgehole photography walk: approximately 3 miles (5km), taking around two hours including photography stops and discussion.
Blue Pig back to IOU Hostel: 1.5 miles.
The total walking distance for anyone joining all three sections is approximately 6 miles.
The photography walk is graded MODERATE and includes uneven and potentially slippery paths, steep climbs and descents, woodland terrain and sections that may be muddy or wet.
Walking boots with good grip are essential.
Accessibility
The guided walks involve steep and uneven terrain and are not suitable for wheelchair users or pushchairs.
The Blue Pig artist talk can be attended without taking part in the walks. However, please be aware that the Blue Pig is an older venue with rough approach paths and small toilet facilities, which may make access difficult, particularly for wheelchair users.
If you have access requirements, please contact us before booking so we can discuss the venue and whether it will meet your needs.
What to bring
Sturdy walking boots with good grip – essential.
Warm layers and waterproof clothing.
Drinking water and snacks.
A fully charged mobile phone.
A camera or smartphone for taking photographs.
Walking poles if you normally use them.
A torch and spare dry clothing are recommended.
Walking Safely – Participant Information
We want everyone to enjoy the day and take part safely. Please read the following information carefully before booking.
Your fitness and suitability for the walk
Please consider your own fitness, mobility, walking experience and any health conditions that may affect your ability to complete the route.
The walks include steep hills, uneven ground and potentially slippery paths. It is important that you feel confident you can manage the terrain and distance.
If you have any health or mobility considerations that may affect your participation, please contact the organisers in advance so that we can discuss the route and any support that may be appropriate.
Following the walk leaders
The walks will be supported by Sowerby Walkers & Ramblers.
Walk leaders will provide a safety briefing before departure and explain the route and any particular hazards.
Participants are expected to:
Follow the instructions of the walk leaders.
Stay with the group and avoid walking ahead or becoming separated.
Take care on steep, uneven or slippery sections.
Wear suitable footwear and clothing.
Let a walk leader know immediately if they experience difficulties, feel unwell or wish to leave the walk.
If you need to leave the walk before it finishes, please speak to a walk leader first so that arrangements can be discussed and the group knows you are no longer participating.
Weather and route changes
The walk leaders and organisers will assess the route and weather conditions before and during the event.
The route may be changed, shortened or cancelled if conditions are considered unsafe. This may include heavy rain, high water levels, slippery ground or other hazards.
Participant responsibilities
IOU and the walk leaders will take reasonable steps to plan and deliver the walks safely, including assessing risks, providing route information and supporting the group.
Participants are responsible for following safety guidance, bringing suitable clothing and equipment, and making an informed decision about their ability to take part.
Walking in the countryside involves some inherent risks, particularly on uneven or slippery terrain. By booking, participants acknowledge that they have read the route and safety information and understand the nature of the activity.
This does not affect any legal rights or responsibilities that cannot lawfully be excluded.
Age restrictions
The walks are not suitable for children under 16.
Young people aged 16–17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult, parent or guardian, who is responsible for supervising them throughout.
Photography
Photographs and video may be taken during the event for IOU’s website and social media.
Please let a member of the team know if you would prefer not to be photographed.
Participants are encouraged to share their own photographs from the day.
Dogs
Please contact the organisers before bringing a dog so that we can confirm whether the route and event arrangements are suitable.