About

Discover the birthplace of Brontë siblings, the Brontë Bell Chapel ruins, Thornton Viaduct, South Square, and hidden ginnels.

Join us for a free walking tour of historic Thornton, led by local historian and Brontë family expert Paul Crossley. We will uncover the rich cultural, industrial, and architectural heritage of the Brontë sisters’ birthplace. For many years Thornton has been the forgotten chapter in the Brontë story, but since the grand opening of the Birthplace in May 2025, we are striving to bring to light the fascinating history of this charming and characterful village.

This 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.

Once overlooked, Thornton’s story is now being brought to life. Step into its vibrant past and discover how it helped shape the Brontës.

Our tour lasts two hours and ends back at the Birthplace, where you’re welcome to relax in the café, browse the gift shop, or book a house tour.

The route around Thornton is relatively flat but there will be extended periods of walking and standing, in some areas the paths are quite narrow and may be impassable without venturing into the road for wheelchair users. The Birthplace has an accessible bathroom and changing place, which are accessible via a stairlift or short flight of stairs. The tour is presented verbally and without the use of microphones.