Brontë Birthplace takes part in Bradford Literature Festival 2026

The Brontë Birthplace is delighted to welcome Bradford Literature Festival audiences to Thornton for a series of inspiring events celebrating the lives, legacy and continuing influence of the Brontë family. 

As the birthplace of Charlotte, Emily, Anne and Branwell Brontë, our historic home provides a fitting setting for conversations that explore the people, places and ideas that continue to captivate readers around the world. 

Across the festival, visitors can hear from heritage champion Steve Stanworth as he reflects on more than two decades of preserving Thornton’s Brontë heritage; explore the haunting landscapes and cultural memory of Brontë Country with researcher Anna Gibson; and discover how the values and determination of the Brontë sisters can still inspire us today through our interactive “Be More Brontë” workshop. 

Together, these events showcase the Birthplace as more than a historic house. They highlight our growing role as a vibrant cultural venue where heritage, learning and creativity come together. 

We are proud to work alongside Bradford Literature Festival in celebrating Bradford’s rich literary heritage and ensuring that the Brontë story continues to inspire future generations. The festival’s Brontë programme explores the landscapes, history and ideas that shaped the family and their writing.  

bradford literature festival

Discover Thornton: The Village That Shaped the Brontës

with Paul Crossley
Saturday 4th, 11am - 1pm
Join Paul Wilkinson for a guided exploration of Thornton's historic streets and landmarks, uncovering the people, places and stories that formed the backdrop to the Brontë family's earliest years.
Anna Gibson

Imagining Unquiet Slumbers: Hauntology and Brontë Country

with Anna Gibson
Tuesday 7th July, 6:30pm - 8pm
How do the landscapes of Brontë Country continue to shape our imagination? Join Anna Gibson for a fascinating exploration of memory, place and the lingering presence of the Brontës in Yorkshire's cultural landscape.
Steve

Keeping the Brontë Story Alive

with Steve Stanworth
Friday 10th July, 6:30pm - 8pm
Bradford-born heritage champion Steve Stanworth shares his remarkable 26-year journey preserving Thornton's Brontë heritage, from the restoration of the Old Bell Chapel and St James' Church exhibition to helping return the Brontë Birthplace to its Regency character.

Be More Brontë

with Mark Musolf
Sunday 12th July, 12pm - 1pm
An engaging and inspiring workshop exploring what we can learn from the Brontës today. Through creativity, resilience and determination, discover how the Brontë sisters' legacy continues to resonate nearly two centuries later.