Heptonstall and the Old Grammar School

On a grey, autumnal day in November 2013, a Samsung Galaxy tablet captured a series of images that perfectly encapsulate the enduring charm and rich history of Heptonstall, a village perched on the hills above Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire. The subject of these photos, the Heptonstall Museum, is more than just a building; it's a Grade II-listed testament to centuries of change, a cornerstone of a community steeped in history.

The building that now houses the museum has had a fascinating journey through time. Its origins trace back to around 1600, when it was constructed not as a place of learning, but as a warehouse. This was a time when the woollen trade was the lifeblood of the Pennines, and Heptonstall was a bustling centre for handloom weaving. You can still see hints of this industrial past in the large first-floor windows of many local cottages, designed to maximise the light for the weavers working within.

In 1771, the building was given a new purpose when it was converted into the Heptonstall Grammar School. The photos from 2013 show the solid stone structure and classic architecture, elements that have witnessed generations of students passing through its doors. The school served the community until its closure in 1889. While the modern world moved on, the building's story didn't end there. For a time, it housed the Yorkshire Penny Bank, before finally reopening its doors in August 1972 as the Heptonstall Museum.

The museum today is a treasure trove of local history, offering a window into the past. It tells the story of the village's prehistoric beginnings and its role in significant events, including the Battle of Heptonstall during the English Civil War in 1643. One of the most captivating exhibits delves into the notorious Cragg Vale Coiners, a gang of counterfeiters who plagued the area in the 18th century. Their leader, "King" David Hartley, is buried in the nearby churchyard—one of the many historical figures whose stories are woven into the fabric of Heptonstall.

Speaking of the churchyard, it is perhaps one of the most unique in the country. It is home to not one, but two churches. The ruins of the Church of St Thomas a Becket, founded in the 13th century and severely damaged in a storm in 1847, stand as a hauntingly beautiful shell. Just yards away, the newer St Thomas the Apostle church, built in the 1850s, stands proudly, a symbol of resilience. This dual churchyard is also the final resting place of American poet Sylvia Plath, a poignant connection to the wider literary world.

The Heptonstall Museum, housed in its old grammar school building, serves as a perfect starting point for exploring this remarkable village. It's a place where the past isn't just displayed, it's alive in the very stones of the building and the stories they tell.

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Heptonstall's Twin Churches

Nestled high in the Pennine hills, the village of Heptonstall holds a unique and poignant secret: a single churchyard shared by two churches, both dedicated to St Thomas. This is a place where history isn't just recorded in books but stands in stone, side-by-side, creating a powerful dialogue between past and present. I visited on a day in July 2020 and was captivated by their intertwined story.

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The Church of St Thomas a Becket: The Enduring Ruin

The older of the two, the Church of St Thomas a Becket, was built between 1256 and 1260. For centuries, its robust stone walls were the heart of the community, bearing witness to generations of Heptonstall residents. Over time, it grew, with additions of two naves, aisles, chantry chapels, and a striking tower that once commanded the skyline.

But in 1847, a violent storm left the church in a state of disrepair. The damage was so severe that the community decided to build a new church rather than repair the old one. Yet, the old church was not forgotten. Today, its ruins stand as a powerful and beautiful monument. The roofless nave, with its arched windows framing the sky, invites quiet contemplation. The crumbling walls, now open to the elements, are a testament to the passage of time. A poignant silence fills the space, occasionally broken by the murmur of visitors or the rustle of the wind. The ruins are more than just a historical site; they are an active part of the village's identity. The carefully maintained grounds and the way the ruins are open to the public create a tangible link to the past. It's a place where history is alive, and occasional open-air services breathe new life into the ancient stones.

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The Church of St Thomas the Apostle: The New Heart of the Village

Rising majestically beside the ruins stands its replacement, the Church of St Thomas the Apostle, completed in 1854. This Victorian Gothic masterpiece presents a stark contrast to its ruined predecessor. Its detailed architecture, soaring spire, and intricate stained-glass windows are a beacon of hope and resilience. The new church is a vibrant community hub, offering regular services and hosting events like the Pennine Spring Music Festival. The light filtering through the colorful stained glass creates an ethereal atmosphere, filling the space with stories told in vibrant hues. The clock face on the tower is a constant, ticking presence, a modern-day anchor to the timeless rhythm of the village.

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A Shared Resting Place

The churchyard itself is as significant as the buildings it holds. It is a shared burial ground for both churches and a final resting place for many who shaped the village's story. Among the weathered gravestones, you'll find the resting place of renowned American poet Sylvia Plath, a fact that draws literary pilgrims from around the world. The graveyard is also home to the grave of David Hartley, leader of the infamous Cragg Vale Coiners, adding another layer of intrigue to this historic ground. The twin churches of Heptonstall are a powerful reminder of how communities adapt and endure. They are a living museum, a spiritual home, and a testament to the village's rich and complex history. Walking between the two buildings, you can feel the centuries of stories and lives that have passed through this remarkable place.

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The Parish Church of St Thomas the Apostle. The graveyard which surrounds both churches is said to hold the remains of over 100000. This burial ground was closed to new interments in 1915 and a new one opened nearby on land gifted by Gamaliel Sutcliffe.

The remains of the Parish Church of St Thomas a Becket.

The new church pictured from the doorway of the old church.

The pinnacle struck by lightening in 1875, stands outside the church as a monument to the night it fell from the tower.

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Exploring the Unseen Heptonstall: A Walk Through History and Charm

Perched high above the Calder Valley, the ancient village of Heptonstall is a place of profound history and quiet beauty. While many visitors flock to its famous landmarks—the Ruined Church and its replacement—this collection of photographs, taken on a clear July day in 2020, offers a different perspective, focusing on the hidden corners and everyday charm of this historic settlement.

A Glimpse into Village Life

Heptonstall is not just a tourist destination; it is a living, breathing village of approximately 1,400 people. Its history is deeply rooted in the textile industry, particularly hand-loom weaving, a tradition that shaped the village’s unique architecture. The pictures capture this character beautifully, from the cobbled streets of Towngate to the sturdy stone houses that have stood for centuries.

One image shows a classic red telephone box, a vibrant splash of colour against the backdrop of a well-kept garden. This iconic symbol of British life, now a rare sight, feels perfectly at home in Heptonstall's timeless setting. Another shot frames a charming row of buildings on Towngate, including the village's post office, with its traditional signage and hanging baskets, a testament to the community spirit that keeps this place alive.

The Stories in the Stone

The houses themselves tell stories. One particularly grand building on Towngate, with its large windows and elegant stonework, stands out as a former high-status dwelling, perhaps a merchant's house from the village's prosperous past. Another photograph shows the former grammar school, now the Heptonstall Museum, its plain, solid facade a symbol of the importance of education in this community. The simple yet striking stonework of these buildings highlights the craftsmanship that went into their construction.

The village's narrow, winding streets feel like a journey back in time, a feeling enhanced by the lack of modern clutter. Heptonstall has featured in a number of TV shows, including the recent Shane Meadows drama The Gallows Pole, a story about the Cragg Vale Coiners. It is a fitting location for such a tale, as the leader of the coiners, "King" David Hartley, is buried in the village churchyard—a grim piece of history that adds another layer to the village's already-rich tapestry.

These photographs reveal the quieter side of Heptonstall, the side that locals and long-time visitors know well. They show a village that has adapted to modern life without losing its soul. Heptonstall remains a favorite spot for hikers and history buffs, a place where every cobbled street and every stone wall has a tale to tell. It is a village that lives up to its reputation as a stunning, historic gem in the heart of the Calder Valley.

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The phone box found towards the lower end of Hetonstall is now I am told used as a library by the local community.

Towngate is the main route through the centre of the village.

The village's post office.

34 Towngate.

41A Towngate. The passge to the right leads to the former grammar school and museum and runs past the churchyard.

The grammar school and museum buildings, the fence to the right surrounds the lower part of the churchyard.

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The Hidden Corners of Heptonstall

Perched high above the bustling market town of Hebden Bridge, the village of Heptonstall feels like a place suspended in time. With its cobbled streets, rugged stone cottages, and a history etched into every building, it's a favourite spot for those who love to wander. While many come for the famous ruined church, my recent journey there was about exploring the lesser-known, quieter corners that truly define its character.

Heptonstall, home to around 1,400 people, has a long tradition of hand-loom weaving, a past that’s visible in its sturdy architecture. The village has also found a new kind of fame, recently serving as a backdrop for the drama The Gallows Pole, a story about the notorious Cragg Vale Coiners. Their leader, "King" David Hartley, is buried in the churchyard—a reminder that this idyllic setting has its share of dramatic history.

The images I captured on a crisp November day show a different side of the village, focusing on its nooks and crannies. The black and white photos accentuate the timelessness of the stone and slate. You can see the old Cloth Hall, where weavers would have sold their wares, its solid walls hinting at the commerce that once drove this community. Walking through the village, you discover delightful details, like the a foreboding archway leading down to the village square and the narrow passages, or "snickets," that wind between the houses. One such snicket, framed by an ancient archway dated 1778, feels like a secret passageway into the past. You can almost hear the echoes of generations of villagers hurrying through, their footsteps muffled by the same stone walls that stand today.

Another highlight was the old water pump, an austere but beautiful piece of functional history built into a stone archway. It’s a powerful symbol of a time before modern plumbing, when life was harder and every resource was valued.

While this set of photographs deliberately omits the more famous landmarks—the Wesleyan Chapel and the twin churches—they offer something more intimate. They reveal the soul of Heptonstall: a village of resilient stone, winding paths, and a palpable sense of history that you can feel with every step.

I took these pictures with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on the 16th November 2016, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

The Museum Snicket runs from Towngate alongside The Cloth Hall towards the Museum and Churchyard, which is to the right behind the metal railings.

The Cloth Hall on Towngate was built around 1545 by the Waterhouse family who lived at Shibden Hall, Halifax. The building was originally single story and known as Blackwell Hall, it was used by local hand-loom weavers to sell their cloth. The 2nd story was added around 1766 by John Uttley, and remained in use for traders until the Piece Hall was opened at Halifax in 1779. It is now a private residence and was granted Grade 11 Listed Status in December 1984.

Towngate is the main road through the village and features at least 15 Listed Buildings along it's length. The stone sets on the road were rediscovered in the 1980's, a plan to replace them was thought off by local residents and they were restored, it is now seen as helping to calm traffic down through the village.

The village water pump was replaced by a public water supply in July 1933.

Bottom of Towngate.

I think I took these last 2 somewhere near the church and museum, the bottom picture I would have thought must be amongst the oldest properties in the village.

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Hardcastle Crags: A Local Treasure Set 3.

Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, near the charming town of Hebden Bridge, lies a hidden gem: Hardcastle Crags. This enchanting wooded valley, also known as Hebden Dale, is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and families seeking a breath of fresh air. Owned and managed by the National Trust, Hardcastle Crags offers a tranquil escape into a world of lush greenery, tumbling streams, and fascinating history.

From the moment you step into the valley, you'll be captivated by its beauty. The towering trees create a verdant canopy overhead, dappling the sunlight that filters through to the forest floor. The air is filled with the soothing sounds of the Hebden Water as it rushes and tumbles along the valley bottom, carving its way through the landscape.

Hardcastle Crags is a place for exploration. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a gentle stroll, there are paths to suit every ability. The network of trails winds through the valley, offering stunning views of the crags themselves – dramatic rock formations that jut out from the hillside, showcasing the power of nature. Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this valley home; from vibrant wildflowers to the elusive kingfisher, there's always something to discover.

A highlight of any visit to Hardcastle Crags is Gibson Mill. This fascinating 19th-century mill, now a visitor centre, offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Learn about the mill's history and the lives of the people who worked there, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in the cafe. The mill is a perfect spot to take a break during your explorations and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

The beauty and importance of Hardcastle Crags haven't gone unnoticed over the years. It's a testament to the power of community that this precious landscape has been protected from development. The valley has been the subject of reservoir proposals on several occasions, but thanks to the tireless efforts of local residents and conservationists, these plans have been successfully fought off, preserving this natural wonderland for generations to come.

Hardcastle Crags is more than just a pretty place; it's a vital part of the local ecosystem and a cherished space for the community. It's a place to connect with nature, to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the natural world.

Planning your visit:

• Location: Near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
• Managed by: National Trust
• Highlights: Woodland walks, Hebden Water, Gibson Mill, stunning crags
• Perfect for: Hiking, family days out, nature lovers
• Don't forget: Your walking boots!

So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful escape, make sure to add Hardcastle Crags to your list. You won't be disappointed by the magic that awaits you in this beautiful corner of West Yorkshire.

Taken on September 10th, 2016 with a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. The picture I took have been split into 3 sets, this is set 3. Clicking any image below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Gibson Mill

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.