Sylvia Plath’s grave

Sylvia Plath is buried in St. Thomas' Churchyard, Heptonstall, West Yorkshire. Born in America in 1932, Plath was a prolific poet, famous for works such as ‘The Moon and the Yew Tree’, ‘Morning Song’ and ‘Tulips’.

She married Ted Hughes in 1956. Their relationship was tumultuous and, in her letters, Plath alleges he was abusive. Her grave bears the name 'Sylvia Plath Hughes' and the headstone has been repeatedly vandalised over the years by those who wish to eradicate his name. This can be seen in the photo above.

Plath was found dead on February 11th 1963 at 23, Fitzroy Road, London, with her head in the oven, having sealed the rooms between her and her sleeping children with tape, towels, and cloths. She was only 30 at the time of her death.

Visiting Heptonstall in a car is a tricky business. Tight, winding streets and its hill top location make it difficult to navigate and there is very little parking available. However, as I was on crutches at the time, walking there was not an option.

Dedicated to St Thomas a Becket, the original church at Heptonstall was built between 1256 and 1260. This is now a ruin and, on the very drizzly, dim day we visited, is very atmospheric. The new church was dedicated to St Thomas the Apostle in 1854, after a fierce storm severely damaged the old building. The churchyard surrounding the old church is no longer used and a newer churchyard, across Back Lane, is where Sylvia Plath is buried. 

St Thomas a Becket,

Heptonstall,

Hebden Bridge,

West Yorkshire,

HX7 7LJ