Heptonstall

The village is on the Calderdale Way, an 80km- (50 mile)-long circular hiking trail that passes through the area.

What to see at Heptonstall

Most people visit Heptonstall simply for the lovely walk and to visit the charming village, although it does have a few attractions in its own right including a small museum and the ruins of a 13th-century church dedicated to Thomas à Beckett.

The church at Heptonstall

The church, which was founded around 1260, was damaged during a storm in 1847 and is now in ruins. Although it is in ruins, it is a fascinating spot to wander around.

The newer Church of St Thomas the Apostle is in the same churchyard and American poet Sylvia Plath is buried here.

Heptonstall Museum

Heptonstall Museum is a small museum in the village’s old grammar school that focuses on local history. It includes artefacts from prehistoric times to the present day and includes displays about the Cragg Vale Coiners and the Battle of Heptonstall, which took place during the English Civil War.

The museum is in the village centre right next to the ruins of the old church. It is only open on weekends.

Visiting Heptonstall

Heptonstall is just 1.2km (¾ mile) northwest of Hebden Bridge and is essentially an extension of the town. It is around a 23-minute uphill walk from Hebden Bridge to Heptonstall and an 18-minute walk back. There are a couple of car parks on the edge of the village.

It is a fairly steep walk up a narrow cobblestone street and the historic nature of the village’s attractions means that it is not a particularly easy place for wheelchair users to visit.

Both the church ruins and the museum are free to visit.

The village has a couple of places to eat and drink including tearooms and a couple of cosy pubs.