Thornton

Thornton is a village located approximately five miles to the west of Bradford. Thornton is historically associated with being the birthplace of the Brontë sisters Charlotte (1816), Emily (1818) and Anne (1820). Their brother Branwell was also born here in 1817. The Brontë family moved to Haworth in 1820.

St James’ Church, is a landmark building located at the east end of Thornton. Copies of the entries in the baptismal register for Charlotte, Emily, Branwell and Anne Bronte, the font from the Old Bell Chapel and a stained glass window designed by William Morris can be viewed at the church.

The natural beauty of the area can easily be enjoyed and appreciated from the Great Northern Trail (Route 69) especially from the Thornton viaduct. The grade II listed structure, dating from 1878 has a rare S-Shaped curve stretching 275 metres and offers spectacular views over the Pinch Beck Valley. The route also provides an opportunity to explore countryside important to Brontë heritage.