The Bronte sisters and Cowan Bridge School


Cowan Bridge comprises a small cluster of approximately six or seven cottages, situated at both ends of a bridge that spans a little stream named the Leck. This bridge marks the intersection of the high road connecting Leeds to Kendal. While the high road is seldom used in modern times, it was once a bustling route, particularly when buyers from the West Riding manufacturing districts journeyed north to purchase wool from Westmoreland and Cumberland farmers. During those prosperous days, Cowan’s Bridge likely had a more thriving appearance than it does today.

In 1824, Patrick Bronte found the task of raising his family challenging and decided to enroll Maria, Elizabeth, Charlotte, and Emily at the recently established Clergy Daughters’ School in Cowan Bridge. However, in June 1825, Charlotte and her sisters were permanently withdrawn from the school. Tragically, Maria and Elizabeth passed away from consumption shortly after returning to Haworth, and the substandard conditions at the school were largely held responsible for their deaths.

The ordeal of Cowan Bridge and the loss of her sisters profoundly affected Charlotte. It is said that her novel “Jane Eyre” (1846) drew inspiration from her experiences at Cowan Bridge.

Cowan Bridge is situated in a picturesque location, nestled where the Leck-fells gracefully descend onto the plain. Along the course of the beck, one can find alder trees, willows, and hazel bushes flourishing. The stream’s flow is occasionally interrupted by rugged grey rock formations, and its waters meander over a bed of large, smooth white pebbles. During floods, these pebbles are displaced and shifted to the sides, forming what appears to be a barrier in some areas.