Oxenhope

Oxenhope is situated at the edge of the Pennine moors in West Yorkshire, England, the area made famous by the Bronte sisters, known as Bronte country. This vast and diverse landscape has inspired painters, writers and poets throughout history and today, is an attraction that brings visitors from all over the world. About the area are charming rural villages, thriving towns, attractions and a huge choice of activities centred on sporting and outdoor pursuits.

The landscape though remains the biggest feature and will be the backdrop to every memory of your visit. Nature here is an exotic dresser, with flora and fauna in every season that will surprise and enchant visitors. An excellent way to take in the scenery is a journey through the heart of Bronte country on the steam railway, The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Line (KWVR).

It was built in 1867 by local mill owners and journeys on today, even though British Rail closed the branch in 1962. The Line reopened in 1968 and has been owned, operated and managed entirely by volunteer members of the Keighley & Worth Valley Preservation Society ever since. The much loved classic tale by E. Nesbit, The Railway Children, was made into a film here in 1969, starring Jenny Agutter. It was filmed at the railway, with most of the filming done at Oakworth Station, just a short distance from Oxenhope.

The steep gradient up the Worth Valley from the Keighley terminus is an astounding part of the journey, filled with drama, noise, scent and action. It has been a challenge for locomotives ever since the line first opened, with the sound of the steam engine echoing from the steep sides of the valley, while plumes of steam and smoke add to the intensity. Many of the woollen mills that once stood close to the line have been demolished, but a few remain as reminders that the textile industry was the reason why the line was built. The five mile journey is a unique way of enjoying the beautiful countryside immortalised by Charlotte, Emily and Anne Bront.

The proud volunteers at the Keighley & Worth Valley Preservation Society state, It is a railway for all seasons, where winter visitors can see the stations bathed in gaslight and warm themselves in front of the coal fires in the waiting rooms. In summer, the station gardens are alive with blooms. Kingfishers, herons and dippers can be seen in the adjacent streams. Locally brewed real ale provides welcome refreshment in the on-train buffet car. A true delight and a must for the itinerary of every visitor to this area.