It’s been named the world’s fourth funkiest town, and last year clinched the impressive title of Best Town in Britain and Ireland.

There is certainly no shortage of quirky charm in Hebden Bridge, where being different is the norm.

Nestled in Calderdale’s Pennine valleys, just a short drive over the moors from Bradford, this little town is famous for its bohemain culture, independent ethos and strong artistic links.

As Britain’s first Walkers Are Welcome town, Hebden Bridge is the ideal base for anything from a short stroll to a weekend of serious hiking.

As we drove over the moors and dropped down into the valley on a sunny Sunday morning, we decided to sample some of the area’s many scenic trails by beginning our trip with a visit to the National Trust-owned Hardcastle Crags.

We made our way down the long, narrow lane to the car park, and soon found we weren’t the only ones who had decided to take advantage of some of the marked walks along this beautiful wooded valley.

Bustling with families, groups of friends and couples all taking advantage of the bank holiday weekend sunshine, Hardcastle Crags was certainly a popular place.

A gentle riverside walk took us to Gibson Mill, a 19th-century mill, which sits at the heart of Hardcastle Crags.

Testament to the area’s industrial past, Gibson Mill perfectly encompasses Hebden Bridge’s transformation from manufacturing town to eco-friendly, artistic hub.

The former cotton mill was restored and renovated by the National Trust, as a model of sustainable development, being 100 per cent self-sufficient.

Today the mill buildings surround a lively courtyard – home to a visitor centre, the Muddy Boots Cafe and education centre – where children were taking part in holiday activities.

Each of Hardcastle Crags’ four circular, colour-coded walk routes – ranging from three to seven miles – pass by Gibson Mill.

After tackling some of the 27 miles of pathways along the rocky valley, we headed towards Hebden Bridge for a well-earned rest.

Arriving at the Moyles Hotel & Restaurant in the centre of the town, we found a stylish and lively bar and were greeted by a friendly member of staff, who helped us with our bags.

We were staying in the Oriental room, one of five Signature rooms, on the top floor of the 12-room boutique hotel.

From the beautiful Eastern-inspired furniture to the copy of Vogue China on the table, the attention to detail really made the room something special. There was even a print-out of the weekend’s weather forecast waiting for us, to ensure we could make the most of our trip.

The roll-top bath and the fluffy bathrobes added to the luxurious feel, making this the perfect base for a special weekend away.

The view over Hebden Bridge Marina revealed a relaxed and friendly atmosphere as people ate and drank on the hotel’s terrace.

Later, it was time for dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. The menu featured plenty of traditional favourites with the occasional twist. With plenty to satisfy meat lovers and some delicious vegetarian options too, the reasonably-priced selection has something for all tastes.

The elegant surroundings complement the food perfectly. From the wood-clad fireplaces and pebbled floor to the strangely befitting assortment of chairs and the intriguing artwork on the walls, the decor seemed to reflect the town’s natural surroundings, industrial history and artistic atmosphere perfectly.

Suitably full, we moved on to the bar. Known for its wide selection of wines and beers, the Moyles is recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale, winning the CAMRA Pub of the Year award in 2009. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the bar was the ideal place to round off a relaxing day.

After returning next morning to the restaurant for a hearty breakfast – my partner predictably chose the full English breakfast, while I went for the healthier summer fruits and yoghurt option – we were fully refreshed and ready to explore the town.

It was a special day in Hebden Bridge. There was a buzz about in anticipation of the annual duck race later in the day.

While the rubber duck contestants were prepared for the big race, we took a walk across the marina opposite the hotel and along the canal, joining crowds to watch narrowboats.

We made our way back to the centre of the town to find bands playing and Rotary Club members drumming up sponsorship for the 7,000 yellow ducks that would be dropped into the river running through the town.

St George’s Square is home to many of Hebden Bridge’s famous independent shops. I could have spent hours on end – and did spend a good portion of the day – browsing all the nick-nacks, books, ceramics, art and antiques on offer.

The town was thronged with people and anticipation for the day’s main event was so high, spectators began to take their position next to the river almost an hour before the ducks took their marks.

Passing the town’s many inviting cafes, we were beckoned instead by the sight of a queue stretching out of the door of a fish and chip shop, and opted to dine in true Yorkshire style.

Back at the riverside, the tension was mounting as the ducks were poured into the river and made their way under the 500-year-old packhorse bridge in the centre of the town. Children cheered and waved flags as the water turned yellow as the thousands of plastic ducks bobbed past the huge crowd.

Unfortunately our ducks did not make it to the podium that day, but we will certainly be back to try our luck again next year.

Factfile

* For more information about attractions in and around Hebden Bridge, visit yorkshire.com.

* Hardcastle Crags is around two miles from Hebden Bridge. For more information, call (01422) 844518 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk/hardcastlecrags.

* The Moyles Hotel, Bar and Restaurant is at 6-10 New Road, Hebden Bridge HX7 8AD. Prices per room start at £81 for a standard room, and £132 for a Signature room. For enquiries and reservations, call (01422) 845272 or visit moyles.com.