Hebden Bridge (a unique hill town in West Yorkshire)
Hebden Bridge is a unique hill town in West Yorkshire that (along with Whitstable in Kent) has more independent shops than anywhere in England. This hilly town used to have so many textile mills that it was called ‘trouser town!’ Many writers and artists make here their home.
Often called the ‘Glastonbury of the North’, this town was once called ‘the fourth funkiest town on earth’ by a travel magazine, and apparently has more indie shops than most other towns in England (even the cinema is independent).
As the town is built on steep valley hills, many houses are built directly into the hills, meaning that some have different street addresses, whether they are on the bottom or top floors! Some even require special flying freehold ownership.
No Starbucks or Costa Coffee here! Every coffee shop on Hebden Bridge’s high street is independently owned. It also has no major supermarkets, and no branch of McDonald’s or Dominoes Pizza.
The big supermarkets have all tried to build here, but met with fierce opposition from both local people and planners. It helps that the council here (unlike some other places) appear to have a backbone, in protecting independent shops and pubs.
Always follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms (and toxic plants/trees) and on leads near birds, barnyard friends and wild ponies.
