The Old White Lion is a traditional inn on Haworth's steep cobbled Main Street, a short walk from the parsonage where the Brontë family lived and the church where they worshipped. It is a good choice for visitors who want to spend an evening in the village after the day trippers leave, when the street is quiet and the moors feel close. The hotel offers comfortable rooms above a pub and restaurant, which gives a relaxed, cosy atmosphere rather than a polished boutique feel. It is a reasonable base for readers of the Brontë novels, for walkers heading onto the moors towards Top Withens, and for rail fans who want to use the heritage Worth Valley line. Keighley and Bradford are close, and Leeds is a manageable journey. The cobbles and gradient of Main Street mean the approach can be tricky with heavy luggage, so ask about parking and drop-off. Check the current rooms, dining times and facilities when you book, as inn accommodation can be simple and varies by room.
Location and getting around
The inn is on Main Street, so the parsonage, church and shops are all close. The Worth Valley railway station is a short walk downhill. Parking may be limited, so check arrangements ahead.
Rooms
Expect individual rooms of different sizes in an older building. Some may be small, and noise from the bar or street can occur at weekends. Request a quieter room if needed.
Who it suits
Readers, walkers and couples who want a characterful stay in a village. It is less suited to travellers who need step-free access, because of the hill and the old building.
Good to know
Haworth is busiest during the day, and quieter in the early morning and evening. Walks onto the moors can be wet and muddy, so bring suitable shoes.
Making the most of your stay
Spend the quiet morning on Main Street before the day trippers arrive, walk to the parsonage and the church, and then head up onto the moors. The route to Top Withens is a classic walk for readers of Wuthering Heights, though it can be wet and exposed.
In the afternoon, ride the heritage railway on the Worth Valley line, and in the evening enjoy the pub. Bradford, Leeds and Skipton are within a short journey for other days. In winter the village is quiet and atmospheric, and in summer it is busy and lively.
Booking tip
Ask about parking and luggage drop-off before you arrive, because Main Street is steep and narrow. Request a room away from the bar if you want an early night, and check whether breakfast is included in your rate.
Why stay here
- ✓Main Street village location
- ✓Pub and restaurant
- ✓Near the Bronte parsonage
- ✓Near the Worth Valley railway
- ✓Walks onto the moors
- ✓Wi-Fi
- ✓Historic building
- ✓Individual rooms
Good questions
Where is the Old White Lion?+
It is on Main Street in Haworth, close to the Bronte parsonage.
Is it good for walkers?+
Yes. The moors and the route to Top Withens start close to the village.
Is there parking?+
Parking can be limited, so check when you book.
