This summer, join us for a season of stories, creativity and discovery at the Brontë Birthplace, the home where Charlotte, Branwell, Emily and Anne first began.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for creative inspiration, or simply searching for somewhere special to spend a summer afternoon, the Brontë Birthplace offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the school holidays. Explore our historic home, enjoy homemade refreshments in our volunteer-run Brontë Birthplace Tea Room, browse our gift shop, and immerse yourself in a season of storytelling, heritage and creativity.
From family-friendly activities and hands-on workshops to exclusive heritage experiences and guided walks, Summer at the Birthplace is packed with opportunities to explore, learn, create and make lasting memories. Scroll down to discover this summer’s programme and start planning your visit.
with our Volunteers
Thu 23 Jul – Sun 30 Aug
12pm – 3pm (Thu & Fri)
11am – 4pm (Sat & Sun)
Can you help find all of our Brontë cats? 8 mischievous Brontë cats have hidden themselves throughout the Birthplace, waiting to be discovered by visitors of all ages.
Pick up your activity booklet when you arrive and explore each room as you search for the cats, uncover fascinating facts and enjoy a fun family adventure through the historic house. The trail is included with admission and is available every day throughout the summer holidays.
with Cathy Calvert
Thu 23 Jul • Thu 6 Aug • Thu 20 Aug
11am – 12pm
Join storyteller Cathy Calvert for a cute morning of imagination and creativity in the very place where the Brontë story began. These relaxed storytelling sessions are perfect for young children and their families, encouraging a love of books and storytelling in a welcoming and historic setting.
After storytime, why not stay a little longer? Explore the Brontë Birthplace, enjoy homemade refreshments in our volunteer-run Tea Room, and discover more about the extraordinary family who began their journey here.
with Annie Lancaster & Kevin Jones
Sat 8 Aug & Sat 15 Aug
11am – 12pm
Meet our talented Artists in Residence, Annie and Kevin, and discover how the Brontë Birthplace continues to inspire creativity today. Chat with the artists, learn about their work and see how history, literature and Thornton continue to influence their creative practice.
These informal sessions offer visitors the opportunity to meet the artists, ask questions and gain a unique insight into the inspiration behind their work. The Meet & Greet sessions are as part of our general admission entry.
with Thomas Haigh
Thu 13 Aug
6:30pm – 8pm
Take a journey behind the scenes of one of Yorkshire’s most remarkable heritage restoration projects. Through photographs, plans and stories from the project, discover how the Brontë Birthplace was lovingly restored from an empty building into the thriving heritage attraction it is today.
This illustrated talk offers a fascinating insight into the restoration process, the discoveries made along the way and the incredible community effort that brought the Birthplace back to life.
with Anna (General Manager) & Millie (Collections & Archives Assistant)
Thu 20 Aug
6:30pm – 8pm
Go behind the scenes and discover some of the fascinating artefacts uncovered during the restoration of the Brontë Birthplace. From everyday objects to hidden treasures, these remarkable discoveries reveal new stories about the house and the people who lived here over the centuries.
Led by Anna and Millie, this intimate handling session offers a rare opportunity to examine these objects up close, hear the stories behind them and ask questions. Your ticket also includes self-guided admission to the Birthplace.
with Volunteer, Paul Crossley
Sat 22 Aug
11am – 1pm
Explore the historic village where the Brontë story began with local guide Paul Crossley. This engaging walking tour reveals Thornton’s rich heritage, remarkable architecture and the places that shaped the Brontë family’s earliest years.
Perfect for history lovers and curious explorers alike, the tour offers a deeper appreciation of the village and its enduring connection to one of Britain’s most celebrated literary families.
with our Catering Manager
Sat 22 Aug
6:30pm – 9pm
Dine where the Brontë family once dined before and why not spend a summer evening at the Brontë Birthplace with our special Brontë Birthplace Supper. Enjoy delicious seasonal food in the unique surroundings of the historic house, accompanied by warm hospitality and the chance to experience the Birthplace after hours.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable evening with friends and family, our Brontë Birthplace Supper promises great food, wonderful company and a truly distinctive setting. Advance booking is essential.
with Annie Lancaster
Wed 26 Aug
1:30pm – 4pm
Discover the mindful art of slow stitching and create your own beautiful mini journal cover inspired by the Brontës. Using a selection of vintage and recycled fabrics, you’ll learn simple hand-stitching techniques before embellishing your design with Brontë-themed fabric prints, buttons, beads and decorative trims to create a truly unique keepsake.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced stitcher, this relaxed workshop is the perfect opportunity to slow down, get creative and enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the Brontë Birthplace. All materials and expert tuition are included, along with tea or coffee and homemade cake. Tickets are £25 per person, with a £10 non-refundable deposit required to secure your place.
Whether you are joining us for a family activity, a creative workshop, a special evening or simply a peaceful afternoon exploring the house, we would love to welcome you to the Brontë Birthplace this summer.
Take your time to discover the programme, book your chosen events and enjoy everything the Birthplace has to offer, from its remarkable history and changing displays to our Tea Room, gift shop and warm volunteer welcome.