Dumb Steeple
📍 2 Leeds Rd, Mirfield WF14 0BT, UK
About Dumb Steeple
The Dumb Steeple is a striking 26-foot stone column situated near Brighouse at Cooper Bridge, Mirfield. This enigmatic monument, with origins potentially dating back to the early 1700s, stands as a unique local curiosity. Its exact purpose remains a fascinating mystery, sparking theories that it served as a Roman route marker, a medieval guide post, or a boundary marker for church land. It's a truly distinctive feature along a busy Yorkshire road, attracting visitors who appreciate its strange charm and historical significance.
Despite its prominent roadside location, many passersby might initially overlook this historic oddity. However, for those who take a moment to notice, the Dumb Steeple offers a captivating glimpse into local history and unanswered questions. Its enduring presence for over 260 years makes it a worthy English curiosity and a fascinating monument for anyone interested in Yorkshire's peculiar past.
Visiting Information
The Dumb Steeple is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as it is an outdoor monument. Accessibility features and payment options are not applicable for this open-air historical marker.
Location
Interactive Map
View accommodation, attractions, restaurants, and events on the map
1 location
📍 2 Leeds Rd, Mirfield WF14 0BT, UK
from 7 reviews
Google Reviews
Reviews from Google Maps.
Showing 5 of 7 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 7 February 2026.
The Dumb Steeple, located near Brighouse at Cooper Bridge, is a 26-foot stone column topped with a ball. Its origins date back to the early 1700s, though its exact purpose remains a mystery. Some theories suggest it was a Roman route marker, a medieval guide post, or a boundary marker for church land. The name "Dumb Steeple" might refer to its silent nature, as it has no inscriptions or markings. It also played a role in the Luddite rebellion of 1812, where it served as a meeting point for the Luddites before their attack on Cartwright's Mill.
A strange curiosity on busy Wakefield Road. Built around 1760 so been there a long time and would probably not even get noticed by most passers by. Not really much but defiantly a worthy English curiosity or oddity if you like that kind of thing.
Fascinating monument that is sadly overlooked even though it is on one of the busiest roads it could be on.
So mid
It's dumb.