Ever felt like you were born in the wrong era? Or maybe you’ve binge-read Jane Eyre and wondered what life was really like for the Brontë sisters? Well, here’s your chance to step into their world—muddy boots and all.
On Easter Sunday, 20th April 2025, the Rotary Club of Bradford West is hosting a walking event that lets you literally retrace the steps of the Brontë family, from their old home in Thornton to their more famous digs in Haworth. It’s part walk, part history lesson, and part time travel (minus the DeLorean).
Walk in the Brontës’ actual footsteps
Before they became the famous literary family we know today, the Brontës were just a young couple—Patrick and Maria—with a growing brood of children, moving house in the early 1800s. This walk follows the route they took when they moved from Thornton to Haworth, way back in 1820.
Fast forward two centuries, and you can now join a modern-day version of that journey, horse and cart included. No need for a bonnet (unless you’re feeling it).
Here’s what the day looks like
You don’t have to do the full thing with the horse and cart—although it’s encouraged if you want the full throwback experience. The walk is split into key moments and stops, so you can hop in or out depending on your time, fitness level, or how into the Victorian vibes you are.
Morning in Thornton – where it all begins:
- 10:00 AM – Meet at the Brontë Birthplace, 72–74 Market Street, Thornton BD13 3HF. That’s where the Brontës lived before moving to Haworth. A traditional horse and cart will be ready to re-enact the move.
- 10:15 AM – Quick farewell gathering at the Brontë Bell Chapel—a good moment for photos, hugs, and history chat.
- 10:45 AM – The cart continues along Market Street. You can follow along on foot, and there’ll be guides and signage to help.
Walk to Haworth – on your own or with others:
- 11:00 AM – Set off on the full walking route with other Brontë fans—or if you’re feeling independent, go at your own pace. Want to use a walking app? Just ask for the GPX file or grab the map in PDF or OS format.
Arriving in Haworth – the Brontë family’s final stop
After a scenic stomp through West Yorkshire, the afternoon picks up again in Haworth:
- 3:00 PM – Reconnect with the horse and cart at Haworth Railway Station.
- Ride in style up Main Street, heading straight to the Brontë Parsonage Museum at Church Street, Haworth BD22 8DR.
- 4:00 PM – There’s a welcome event at the Parsonage, with a warm reception and a chance to reflect on the journey. Expect stories, refreshments, and maybe some surprises.
Why it’s more than just a walk
Sure, it’s a good stretch for your legs. But more than that, this walk helps raise money to support the Brontë Birthplace—a spot that’s packed with literary history but still needs love and upkeep. The Rotary Club of Bradford West is behind the event, putting their energy into keeping this special place on the map.
Plus, it’s a brilliant excuse to ditch the screens for a day and get outside. You’ll meet people who love the Brontës, history, or just a scenic Yorkshire trek. And who knows—you might discover your own inner poet on the way.
Need-to-knows at a glance
- Date: Sunday 20th April 2025 (Easter Sunday)
- Start Time: 10:00 AM
- Start Location: Brontë Birthplace, Thornton BD13 3HF
- End Location: Brontë Parsonage, Haworth BD22 8DR
- Organised by: Rotary Club of Bradford West
- Purpose: Raise funds for the Brontë Birthplace
- Route Info: Available as map (PDF/OS) or GPX file
What to bring
- Comfy walking shoes (this is Yorkshire—we’re talking cobbles and country lanes)
- A flask of tea or coffee (or treat yourself at one of the local cafés)
- Weather-appropriate clothes (could be sun, rain, or sheep—who knows?)
- A book to read along the way? Optional, but very on brand
Final thought
You don’t need to be a Brontë superfan to enjoy this. Just someone who fancies a good walk, a bit of fresh air, and a glimpse into what life was like 200 years ago. Whether you’re going full costume or just tagging along in your trainers, this walk is a brilliant mix of fun, history, and community spirit.
And if you do go—take photos. Tag it. Share it. Keep the Brontë story going.
