Beautiful village used to film hit BAFTA TV series is an ‘unspoilt hidden gem’ | UK | Travel
Beautiful village that was used to film hit BAFTA TV series is an ‘unspoilt hidden gem’ (Image: Getty)
Nestled on a hilltop in the British countryside just above Hebden Bridge, with a population of no more than 1,500 people, Heptonstall proves that size doesn’t matter when it comes to charm. The “beautiful little village” of Heptonstall is one of the most historic in Yorkshire, “beguiling the visitor with its quiet charm,” according to Visit Calderdale.
Recent visitors have referred to it as a charming location, akin to “stepping back in time”. They have also commended its cobbled streets, a few pubs, a tea room, and two churches, one of which includes the ruins of St Thomas à Becket. Visti Calderdale said: “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.”
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Hepstonstall has been used to film hit BAFTA BBC TV series Happy Valley (Image: BBC)
Hepstonstall has established a reputation following its appearances in the BAFTA-winning BBC thriller series Happy Valley, The Gallows Pole on the BBC, and Peterloo.
Prominent filming sites in the village included The White Lion, Heptonstall Museum, the Church of St Thomas à Becket, and St Thomas the Apostle.
Hepstonstall is also known for being the burial place of the famous American poet Sylvia Plath. She is buried within the new St Thomas à Becket churchyard.
Renowned for her book The Bell Jar, Sylvia passed away on February 11, 1963, at the young age of 30.

Hepstonstall is also known for being the burial place of the famous American poet Sylvia Plath (Image: Getty)
Sharing their experiences of exploring Heptonstall, visitors were impressed by the picturesque village, saying it won’t leave you disappointed.
User Howlo said: “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 agreed: “Hebden Bridge and Heptonstall are both lovely places to visit. Heptonstall is like stepping back in time.”
Hazwel R exclaimed, “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.”

Hepstonstall is often overlooked by tourists (Image: Getty)
Joetravels2014 said: “A village that is often overlooked by tourists. It’s a place to see if you have time, lovely and charming.”
Lynne M commented: “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 wrote: “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.”








