Heptonstall Village and St Thomas a' Becket Church Ruins

Situated on a moorland spur high above the characterful town of Hebden Bridge is Heptonstall, one of the most historic villages in Yorkshire. Centred around the ruins of the Church of St Thomas a' Becket, the village was once a centre for hand-loom weaving. The need for plenty of light resulted in the terraced homes having large first-floor windows, a facet which is still evident today.

There are two notable graves in the village. 'King David' Hartley, the enigmatic leader of the Cragg Vale Coiners, is buried here. As is Sylvia Plath, the American poet, novelist and short-story teller. She was married for a short time to Ted Hughes, one of Britain’s great poets, who was born in nearby Mytholmroyd.

It's worth a wander around all the narrow roads and alleyways of Heptonstall.

Award winning tea room (with vegan and gluten free options) or picnic tables for your refreshments if seating required.