Brontë Birthplace Opens Its Doors For National Festival

Image by Matt Gibbons Photography

The fascinating story of one of Yorkshire’s most important historical and literary buildings will be explored as part of Heritage Open Days, England's largest community-led festival of history and culture.

An exhibition at the Brontë Birthplace in Thornton, Bradford will explore the remarkable history of the building, and what happened after the famous literary sisters left.

Photographs, plans, memories and other materials will reveal the many lives the building had, including a butcher’s shop, visitor attraction and café, community-owned heritage site and restored Brontë Birthplace.

Thomas Haigh, Vice Chair and Marketing and Audience Development Lead at the Brontë Birthplace, said:

"While the Brontë Birthplace will always be significant for being the first home of Charlotte, Emily, Anne and Branwell, we know it enjoyed a rich history after their departure.

"We want to share this 200-year story with our visitors as well as showcase the challenges, discoveries and community effort behind the restoration and how this remarkable building continues to evolve and serve a new generation of visitors."

As part of the festival there will also be a free walking tour of Thornton which will uncover the rich cultural, industrial and architectural heritage of the Brontë Birthplace.

For many years Thornton has been the forgotten chapter in the Brontë story, but since the opening of the Birthplace in May 2025, its significance is being brought back to light.

Led by local historian and Brontë family expert Paul Crossley, this 2-hour tour begins at the Brontë Birthplace and guides you through key sites including the Brontë Bell Chapel ruins, Kipping House, South Square Centre, and the village’s iconic snickets and ginnels.

The tour ends back at the Birthplace, where visitors can relax in the café, browse the gift shop, or book a house tour.

Heritage Open Days is England's largest community-led festival of history and culture, involving thousands of local volunteers and organisations. Every year in September it brings people together to celebrate heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences, and it’s all free.

The exhibition will be available from 11am to 4pm on Sunday, September 13th and Thomas Haigh will be on hand to answer any questions. The walking tour will take place on Saturday, September 19th from 11am. Both events are free.

Find out more information at brontebirthplace.com.