Situated just four miles from Colne in Lanacashire lies the historical village of Wycoller, a portal to the past with its ancient ruins and fascinating literary connection.

The deserted village is most renowned for its ties to the celebrated Brontë sisters, who resided in nearby Haworth. In her iconic novel Jane Eyre, English author Charlotte Bronte crafted a fictional building, Ferndean Manor, believed to be modelled on the now-ruined Wycoller Hall.

From the 16th through to the 18th century, the hall was a prominent feature of the village, likely witnessed by the author during her travels.

Bronte would often visit Gawthorpe Hall to stay with the Kay-Shuttleworth family, leading many to speculate that she drew inspiration from this imposing structure during her journey.

This theory is supported by the journey described in the novel towards the Manor, when approached from the old coach road, as it closely mirrors the setting of Wycoller Hall. However, all that remains of the once grand hall today are remnants and ruins, in what used to be a bustling village.

After years of neglect, the village was rescued by local volunteers in the 1940s and subsequently purchased by the Lancashire County Council. Now, it forms part of the Wycoller Country Park, open to all for exploration and leisurely strolls among its ruins.

Visitors can anticipate seeing several bridges constructed over the tranquil beck that meanders through the heart of the village, adding to its historical charm. Clam Bridge stands amongst these historic structures, frequently crossed by park visitors, with origins stretching far beyond the 19th century and the era of the Brontës.

This bridge is believed to be an Ancient monument exceeding 1,000 years in age – and it’s not the sole indicator of the area’s rich past. Another equally significant bridge in Wycoller is Sally’s Bridge, celebrated for its appearance in the film The Railway Children – its enduring structure boasts a heritage spanning from the 13th to the 15th century.

Meanwhile, Clapper Bridge, constructed from substantial gritstone slabs resting on piers, is thought to originate from as early as the 16th century. Additionally, numerous artefacts discovered amongst the abandoned village reveal evidence of human habitation extending back to the Stone Age.

Visitors continue to flock to the location today, exploring the remnants and discovering the stories of those who once lived there. However, protective measures have been implemented to preserve its unspoilt beauty, keeping modern intrusions at bay.

This includes a vehicle-free zone, meaning no accessible roads penetrate the village, which remains reachable only on foot, except for residents holding permits. One recent visitor documented their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “Wycoller is such a cute, picturesque little place.

“It has a lovely stream for sitting by or paddling in. There’s plenty of shade in summer, from the huge trees. There was also a small exhibition, some ruins and well preserved stone bridges. It’s not a long walk but it’s perfect for a picnic and/or for the kids to paddle in the stream.”

Another visitor shared: “Beautiful place to go with amazing sights and a lovely shop for snacks and a warm drink. There are also different little trails and bridges to go over and plenty of ducks to feed. I recommend this to anyone who fancies going out for the day to be in touch with nature.”

You can visit a National Trust property for free at locations across England, Wales and Northern Ireland with this day pass for you and your family.