A historic village in Yorkshire has been used to film Happy Valley and other BBC productions, and visitors say it’s like stepping back in time.
Fascinating village often ‘overlooked by tourists’ is surrounded by breathtaking views(Image: PeteStuart via Getty Images)
Perched atop a hill in the British countryside just beyond Hebden Bridge, with a population barely exceeding 1,500 souls, Heptonstall demonstrates that when it comes to allure, size is irrelevant. This “beautiful little village” ranks amongst Yorkshire’s most historic settlements, “beguiling the visitor with its quiet charm,” according to Visit Calderdale.
Those who’ve visited recently describe it as an enchanting spot, comparable to “stepping back in time”. They’ve also praised its cobblestone lanes, handful of pubs, a tea room, and a pair of churches – one featuring the remains of St Thomas à Becket.
Visit Calderdale stated: “Surrounded by breathtaking countryside, Hebden Bridge has been voted as the ‘fourth funkiest town in the world’, best small market town in the UK and ‘the greatest town in Europe’. Heptonstall is one of the most historic villages in Yorkshire, beguiling the visitor with its quiet charm.”
Heptonstall has built a following thanks to its appearances in the BAFTA-winning BBC thriller series Happy Valley, The Gallows Pole on the BBC, and Peterloo.
Key filming locations within the village featured The White Lion, Heptonstall Museum, the Church of St Thomas à Becket, and St Thomas the Apostle, reports the Express.
Heptonstall is also recognised as the final resting place of celebrated American poet Sylvia Plath. She lies buried in the newer St Thomas à Becket churchyard.
Famous for her novel The Bell Jar, Sylvia died on 11 February 1963, aged just 30. Visitors to Heptonstall have been left captivated by the charming village, insisting it’s a destination that won’t disappoint.
Howlo shared: “A truly quaint and beautiful village, it’s like going back in time, and I am told it’s used for many period television series. I can see why. I loved it and would certainly visit again.”
Ted S concurred: “Hebden Bridge and Heptonstall are both lovely places to visit. Heptonstall is like stepping back in time.”
Hazwel R said: “There are not enough stars to rate this place. It is so much more than excellent. The most beautiful, tranquil village. Amazing scenery, the locals are so friendly and welcoming, Heptonstall is truly an amazing place to visit. Come just for the views alone, you will never be disappointed.”
Julian140 commented: “Nice bracing walk up there whichever way you go [to the village]. Rewarded with a virtually unspoilt old-world village.”
Joetravels2014 noted: “A village that is often overlooked by tourists. It’s a place to see if you have time, lovely and charming.”
Lynne M added: “The historic village is like turning back time. It is situated high up on a hill overlooking the old industrial town of Hebden Bridge. We parked on the outskirts and wandered around the very quiet streets, marvelling at the historic buildings and the narrow cobbled streets. We came across historic church ruins and old graveyards with masses of stone headstones embedded in the ground. It was fascinating.”
Susan Olivia L penned: “This place is amazing! Feels like you’re on the set of a Harry Potter movie – spectacular old ruin, really worth the hike up the (very steep and long) hill!”
User Gypfin said: “The best village in Yorkshire due to the fact it’s still quiet and unspoilt. It’s a tranquil, hidden gem with two good pubs, fantastic views, architecture and people. I highly recommend you visit; there is always a warm welcome.”