Brilliant Bookshops: The Book Case, Hebden Bridge

Hebdon Bridge is a lovely town in the Upper Calder Valley, full of independent shops and cafes. It is surrounded by wonderful walking country, making it a popular place for visitors. The steep hills with fast-flowing streams meant that Hebden Bridge was ideal for water-powered weaving mills, leading to the town’s development during the 19th and 20th centuries. At one time, it was known as ‘Trouser Town’ due of the amount of clothing manufacturing it housed.

For most of my visit here, sideways rain was hammering down, making it very wet and cold, with limited photo taking opportunities! However, the charm of the town is undeniable. In St George's Square, there is a sculpture called the ‘fustian knife’, a replica of the knife, which was used to make corduroy, a fabric that the town was famous for. The sculpture also works as a sundial- but there was no chance for me to see this in action!

Unfortunately, Hebden has also become well known for suffering severe flooding and its lovely independent bookshop, The Book Case, has not escaped. This wonderful shop is very much at the heart of its community and stocks an amazing range of books, including local publications and books by local authors.

The book is beautifully laid out and wonderfully welcoming, a real refuge for a dripping wet customer who tried very hard not to drip on any books. There was so much choice with a tempting children’s section and plenty of books-you-never-knew-you-needed on offer! This is a shop to return to again and again- I just wish I lived closer!

The Book Case

29 Market St,

Hebden Bridge

HX7 6EU