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It is #LGBTQIA+HistoryMonth, which marks a fantastic opportunity to profile Hebden Bridge, warmly known as the 'lesbian capital of the UK'. Some places across the globe are known for having a higher number of queer people. Which now, following the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the Census 2021, we can start to understand more about the LGBTQIA+ representation across the region.  

San Francisco, Brighton, New York, Bangkok, and our very own Hebden Bridge. Inclusivity runs deep in this beautiful town, with an array of queer friendly venues, events, and culture, Hebden Bridge has long made its mark on the map for this community. 

So, how did it become a thriving community for LGBTQIA+ people and creatives? 

The LGBTQIA+ community can trace its heritage back over 50 years in Hebden Bridge. It stems from the 1970s, when artists and activists were drawn to the town by cheap property prices following the mass closure of the mills. From this it became a place which allowed people to develop the freedom to live how they wanted to, and a creative hub ensued of writing, painting and music. It became a melting pot of art, activism, and queerness which has branched out into the neighbouring towns of Mytholmroyd & Todmorden.  

Let’s not also forget that Hebden Bridge is as beautiful as it is inclusive. Surrounded by stunning hills which are marked with Yorkstone houses and fairy tale like bridges crossing calming streams. The town centre has also been called the ‘Yorkshire San Francisco’ with its mixture of independents, eco-friendly shops, and cultural venues.  

Top destinations in Hebden Bridge and surrounding areas:  

Hebden Bridge Picture House: During LGBTQIA+ History Month this independent, not for profit cinema will be showing Peter Von Kant, a love story about a successful film director who falls in love with a young man of modest means.  

By bus: Nearest stop – New Road – served by 590, 591 and 592 

By train: 8 minute walk from Hebden Bridge Train Station 

Walking and Cycling: Use the handy City Connect Journey planner for cycling and walking options. 

Shibden Hall: Grade II - listed building, which was the home of Anne Lister, who is thought to have been Britain’s ‘first modern Lesbian; her story came to life in the hit TV show Gentlemen Jack.  

By bus: Nearest stop – Godley Lane – served by 255, 508, 548, 549, 681 and 682. 

Walking and Cycling: Use the handy City Connect Journey planner for cycling and walking options. 

The Trades Club: Described as the hippest venue in the north, this club regularly hosts queer live acts and bands with a full schedule of acts for the month of February. 

By bus: Nearest stop – New Road – served by 590, 591 and 592 

By train: 8 minute walk from Hebden Bridge Train Station 

Walking and Cycling: Use the handy City Connect Journey planner for cycling and walking options.  

Hardcastle Craggs and Gibson Mill: Over 400 acres of unspoilt woodland featuring idyllic waterfalls and roaming streams, all accessible with over 15 miles of footpaths, with Gibson Mill sitting at its heart. 

By bus: Nearest Stop - Keighley Road, Midgehole Road – Served by 594, 599 and B3 Bronte Bus 

By train: 35-minute walk from Hebden Bridge Train Station 

Walking and Cycling: Use the handy City Connect Journey planner for cycling and walking options. 

Hebden Bridge Open Market: Winner of Britain’s Best Small Open Market in 2016, it has 40 stalls with fresh and local produce, second hands good, arts and artisan goods and local eateries nearby. The stalls change daily, and you can often find many of them occupied by a member of the Hebden Bridge LGBTQIA+ creative community. 

By bus: Nearest stop – New Road – served by 590, 591 and 592 

By train: 8 minute walk from Hebden Bridge Train Station 

Walking and Cycling: Use the handy City Connect Journey planner for cycling and walking options. 

Hike over to Heptonstall – Have a stroll over to the history steeped Heptonstall, follow cobbled paths that overlook the valley and make your way to one of the most historic villages in the Pennines which is home to the resting place of Sylvia Plath.  

Bike or walk along the Rochdale Canal: 16 kilometres of the canal have recently been resurfaced between Todmorden and Sowerby Bridge via both Hebden Bridge and Mytholmroyd, allowing much of the Calder Valley community to enjoy this beautiful part of our region on a flat, accessible, attractive route. 

LGBTQIA+ Events across the region: 

Todmorden Women’s Disco at Todmorden Cricket Club 

Over the Rainbow get-together at Todmorden Library  

Happy Valley Pride 

Queer Futures - Hidden Histories of New Briggate Tickets, Wed 22 Feb 2023 at 10:30 | Eventbrite  

LGBTQ+ Drama Club at Swarthmore Education Centre Tickets, Fri 24 Feb 2023 at 14:00 | Eventbrite  

LGBTQ+ Songwriting Workshop Via Zoom Tickets, Fri 10 Feb 2023 at 17:00 | Eventbrite  

LGBTQ+ Poetry Club Via Zoom Tickets, Thu 16 Feb 2023 at 15:30 | Eventbrite  

LGBTQ+ Yoga for Empowerment Via Zoom Tickets, Fri 3 Feb 2023 at 10:00 | Eventbrite  

LGBTQ+ watercolour florals workshop at KVDT Tickets, Tue 21 Feb 2023 at 10:00 | Eventbrite