About Brontë Waterfall and Bridge
Brontë Waterfall
The Brontë Waterfall is a natural water feature located about a mile southwest of Stanbury. Whilst the waterfall itself might not blow your mind, its location up in the moors of Brontë Country is certainly worth visiting.
The waterfall gained popularity among the Brontë sisters, particularly Charlotte, who is quoted as wanting to witness it during winter.
“We set off, not intending to go far; but though wild and cloudy it was fine in the morning; when we got about half-a-mile on the moors, Arthur suggested the idea of the waterfall; after the melted snow, he said it would be fine. I had often wished to see it in its winter power, so we walked on. It was fine indeed; a perfect torrent racing over the rocks, white and beautiful!”
Charlotte Brontë, 29 November, 1854
This cascade is most impressive after heavy rainfall, turning into a powerful flow that tumbles over the rocks, creating a beautiful spectacle.
Brontë Bridge
At the bottom of the valley, just moments from the waterfall, lies the historic Brontë Bridge, an old stone crossing that spans the South Dean Beck.
Unfortunately in May 1989, a flash flood swept the bridge away. It was rebuilt in 1990, and a plaque donated by the Brontë Society, attached to a large rock in front of the bridge, commemorates the reconstruction.
Japanese Popular Culture
The area is also popular with Japanese visitors for whom the works of the Brontës is well known, in part due to a 1988 film adaptation of Wuthering Heights plus a 2016 novel 'Yuki Chan in Brontë Country'.
You'll even spot some signs in Japanese featuring the words 'Arashi Ga Oka', meaning Wuthering Heights.
Bronte Waterfall Walk
The walk to Bronte Waterfall and Bridge is a relaxing journey through the heart of Brontë Country, appealing to both fans of nature and literary history.
Directions
The Brontë Waterfall walk begins in Haworth, taking approximately 45 minutes from the Main Street. Alternatively you can start from Penistone Hill Country Park, which offers free parking and takes only 25 minutes.
The route is relatively easy but becomes rougher and more challenging closer to the waterfall, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Starting next to the Bronte Parsonage Museum, follow the path through the churchyard, past the Old School Rooms, and out onto the moors.
You'll traverse Penistone Hill Country Park, which provides stunning views over Lower Laithe Reservoir. Signposts guide you through the moorland, eventually leading to the waterfall.
At the waterfall, take a moment to find Charlotte's Chair, an L-shaped stone where Charlotte Bronte used to sit. The area around the bridge is a wonderful spot for a picnic and, if you're feeling adventurous, you can dangle your feet in the chilly water.
Continuing to Top Withens
From here you can simply turn back and return the same way you came or continue on a longer circular walk via Top Withens.
To continue to Top Withens, cross the Bronte Bridge and climb the steep bank on the other side of the valley. From here, follow the single path to the Top Withens, a ruined farmhouse reputed, perhaps incorrectly, to have inspired the setting of Wuthering Heights.
The circular route then leads you down to Stanbury, where you can stop at the Wuthering Heights pub, and back to Haworth, offering beautiful views of the valley and reservoir, and numerous photo opportunities along the way.
Safety
The walk is relatively simple but bear in mind the following:
The stones on the path down to the waterfall can be slippery when wet so ensure to wear sturdy footwear.
Be mindful of the rocks if walking with young children. The walk to Top Withens can also be quite boggy.
BBQs are prohibited in the area due to the risk of moorland fires.
Continue reading for more things to do in and around Haworth village.
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