As I approach Hebden Bridge station, it doesn’t take me long to notice Queer Out Here, an LGBTQ+ walking group. A group of individuals has gathered around a picnic bench adorned with a Pride flag. The setting is fitting since this town in West Yorkshire is occasionally known as “the lesbian capital of the UK.” Additionally, the 2021 census affirmed Hebden Bridge’s reputation as a rural center for the LGBTQ+ community more broadly, with 9% of its inhabitants identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual – approximately three times the national average.
Right from the start, the ambiance is amicable. Ben Beckwith, who is in charge of today’s excursion up Stoodley Pike, a 400-meter hill in the southern Pennines, welcomes me. We start off on the canal path at a leisurely pace, with almost 30 individuals in tow. Some have arrived with acquaintances, while others are present to make new connections in the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the overcast weather, we are all eager to begin.
The group unanimously agrees that these hikes offer a sense of camaraderie in a world where they may not always feel recognized or accepted. Ailish Breen, who founded Queer Out Here in early 2020, states, “In the queer community, many people have felt like they don’t belong at some point. So, being part of a group where everyone comes from the community and is more likely to comprehend your viewpoint is affirming.” Breen grew up trekking in North Yorkshire and wished to “give back to the community that has provided me with so much happiness over the years.”
Once we depart from the canal path, we pause for a break before moving on to the Pennine Way, England’s most ancient national trail. We begin a gradual climb up a gravel path through the woods and emerge into a gap between the fields where sheep graze among dry stone walls. At our next stop, Beckwith remarks, “I believe it has provided people with a sense of community. You have a group of people who essentially met as strangers this morning, and everyone is chatting away.”
For Beckwith, Queer Out Here is a means of “cultivating healthy habits as a community.” Although the LGBTQ+ community has traditionally centered around nightlife, research has demonstrated that LGBTQ+ individuals experience higher rates of substance abuse and mental health issues. However, an increasing amount of research indicates that spending time in nature is beneficial for mental health. Breen notes, “Interpersonal connection is crucial, particularly because queer individuals are more likely to feel lonely or have difficulty with their mental health. The connection with nature is important because it can be transformative.”
From my perspective, being with a group of individuals who comprehend your encounters provides a sense of security, as well as pure happiness.
Certain individuals may inquire why LGBTQ+ individuals require spaces designated for them, but the answer, in my view, is clear: due to the discrimination we continue to encounter in non-LGBTQ+ spaces. Throughout the years, I have been taunted, informed that my sexuality is incorrect, and constantly asked, while kissing another woman, if I want to participate in a threesome. To me, it is a matter of safety in numbers – and the pure delight of being among people who empathize with your experiences.
As we made our way up a path across the moors’ dense grassy terrain, we eventually arrived at a broad plain that led us to the summit, identifiable by the towering Stoodley Pike monument erected in 1856. Pausing once more, we sought refuge from the wind at the base of the monument to enjoy our sandwiches and share flasks of tea. Although our surroundings had been featured in the popular crime drama Happy Valley, the area’s history of lesbianism remained closely intertwined. Sally Wainwright, the show’s writer, was also the creator of Gentleman Jack, a series filmed in this region and based on the life of Anne Lister, considered Britain’s “first modern lesbian.” Those interested in her life can visit Shibden Hall, her former home, located nearby.
Michael Spence, a regular participant of Queer Out Here, sees today as an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in the company of fellow LGBTQ+ individuals. He notes that, as a gay man, many social activities tend to revolve around drinking, such as going to gay bars and getting drunk. However, he finds it refreshing to engage in a social activity with other queer people where alcohol isn’t the main focus, as it benefits both his physical health and social well-being.
As the forecast predicts rain, we set off on a new route through the woods, making our way past a farm and onto a quiet road for the final leg of the journey back to Hebden Bridge. Along the way, we pass an old cotton mill that serves as a reminder of the town’s industrial history.
During our post-walk pub visit, Zara Hindmarsh, who is participating in her second Queer Out Here event, shares that the experience left her feeling validated and reminded her that there are many others who identify as queer. She believes that groups like this are crucial in encouraging LGBTQ+ individuals to engage with the great outdoors. Zara notes that having a shared identity with other participants makes outdoor activities more accessible for the community and can ease any initial anxieties.
For those interested in joining, Queer Out Here’s next walk is taking place on March 18th in Snowdonia, and all walks are free to attend.
Additional outdoor groups for the LGBTQ+ community.
Additional outdoor groups tailored to LGBTQ+ individuals include Lakes Queer Adventures, which is hosting a “weekend of adventure” (24-26 March) in the Lake District, and Peak Queer Adventures based in Sheffield, organizing regular meet-ups in the Peak District for climbers, hikers, cyclists, and swimmers.
For those interested in surfing, the Queer Surf Club has a sold-out surfing weekend in Cornwall this April but also maintains a waiting list. The Queer Campfire hosts camping trips for LGBTQ+ women, trans, and non-binary people, with their next trip scheduled for July. The Oban Lesbian Weekend, in its second year, has a weekend trip also in July, described as a “cross between a package holiday and a mini festival.” LGBTQ+ runners can also find community in running groups throughout the UK, such as Queer Runnings in the Lake District and Queer Running Club in London.
