Whit Friday is very special to the people of Saddleworth. Beginning with the Whit Walks, or Procession of Witness , large processions from the villages walk to the centre of Uppermill, accompanied by a band or two. In Diggle, there is a coach laid on to carry transport residents with mobility issues to the Church Service.
Along the route, the procession stops to sing hymns.
There can be some disruption to traffic whilst the procession makes its way to Uppermill, so take a look at our map and be prepared for rolling road closures in the morning.
The Contest
In the afternoon, the contest begins at 4pm and the road closures are permanent until midnight. Most residents can find a route home following our map, but will not be given access through the main part of the contest. This also affects traffic in and out of Warth Mill and the Band Club. Please make sure you know how you will be affected if you live in the village.
There will be car parking at Saddleworth School. This will be locked overnight.
Bands arrive by coach and register to play. They march in order, and are judged by our Deportment Judge. This is when they may play traditional marches or something more modern.
They arrive at the “Diggle Dome” – an undercover playing arena, where the Adjudicator listens to them without knowing who they are. They are competing for our Prizes and the Area Prizes, so some bands earn a lot of money on the day, if they can get to 6 contests.
We have a large grassy area where there are food outlets and ice cream. There is room for gazebos and chairs. It can be sunny, muddy, or midgey, depending on the day, so be prepared with sun cream, wellies and insect repellent!
We have a number of caterers on and around the site.
We can have up to 64 bands visiting during the evening, so it can get pretty hectic at times! You might see a school band, followed by a top band such as Brighouse and Rastrick, followed by a Scratch band made up of University players, or top players from the West End. It’s all chance who makes it here!
Access by public transport, cycling or walking
The 184 bus will be running but is diverted to Standedge Road. It may not run to time! We are working with TFGM to have shuttle buses round contests- watch this space!
The Huddersfield Canal makes a great route from Uppermill, Greenfield and Friezland, and the Delph Donkey will take you over to Delph. There is a steep but short walk over to Dobcross.
Parking is very limited, but the Saddleworth School is available for parking. The car park will be locked overnight.
Accommodation and Local Businesses
Saddleworth is a fabulous place to explore and we have great facilities on offer for visitors at any time of year.
Saddleworth Whit Friday – information about all of the contests in Saddleworth.
Saddleworth in Focus Gill Brett is a Diggle resident and photographer who has kindly donated many of our images
The Loading Bay for food.
Diggle Lock for food.
Diggle Hotel Available for food and accommodation
The Gate Inn Food and accommodation.
Diggle House Farm Holiday cottages