Hebden Bridge
Sunday, January 23, 2011 at 9:11 PM 
Hebden Bridge sits in a steeply wooded valley. When the woollen industry it was built on declined in the sixties, the mill-working population saw an influx of green activists, alternative practitioners and artists of all kinds. More recently, it has attracted commuters who travel daily to Leeds or to Manchester.
This strange mix of residents - together with a regular helping of tourists and day-trippers - gives the town a super relaxed, yet trendy vibe. In fact, Hebden has been rated the ‘fourth funkiest town in the world’.
It’s one of the most creative places you’ll ever come across….teeming with galleries and craft shops and hosting a sizeable arts festival every summer. It has a great Picture House that serves as both a normal and an art house cinema.
The town is also very scenic, with both a river and canal running through it. The buildings cling so tightly to the sides of the tree-clad hills that a special Act of Parliament had to be passed to allow people to gain mortgages on the houses which are - quite literally - built on top of one another.
We’ll spend an afternoon exploring Hebden Bridge during The Magic of the Moors retreat. You’ll be able to take your pick from the numerous cafes serving up organic and locally-produced food. And shop in the plethora of artsy stores. Be sure to check out my favourites: the fabulous contemporary Heart Gallery (pictured above) and Hannah Nunn’s exquisite designer lighting boutique, Radiance.
Hebden Bridge has been called the perfect mix of the urban and rural. Why not come see for yourself?
Reader Comments (3)
I, too, think Hebden Bridge is an amazing little place - full of the unexpected. I'm sure the lucky folk who join you on your retreat will love it.
love these images!
I love Hebden Bridge. Fortunately, only about a 40 minute drive away! I love the vibe, the places you can wander, the cafes, the creativity. It's wonderful!