Walk with Mary

Led by Helen’s Heritage Walks, those taking part will discover more about the pioneering early feminist who lived at Red House, Gomersal, in the early 19th century.

Mary was a close friend of Charlotte Brontë, and was immortalised as Rose Yorke in the author’s novel Shirley.

She refused to be bound by the traditional roles expected of middle-class women at that time and lived a uniquely independent life.

In 1845 she emigrated to New Zealand where she started a successful shop business. After returning to Gomersal in 1860 she spent 33 years writing and travelling.

She led tours of women mountain climbing in Europe and wrote radical feminist articles and books. Her novel Miss Miles was published in 1890.

The event is on Saturday and starts at Red House in Oxford Road, with a short guided tour around Mary’s old home which featured as Briarmains in Shirley.

It will be followed by a walk around the Gomersal area to learn how Mary inspired Charlotte. It will cover 3.5 miles, including field paths, slopes and stiles, taking in various places Mary knew, including her later Gomersal home High Royd (now Gomersal Lodge hotel), the ‘Pork Pie’ chapel and St Mary’s churchyard where Mary is buried.

The event lasts from 1.30pm-4pm and costs £6 for adults and £3 for children. There is also an admission charge to the museum of £2.50 adults, £1 children or £6.00 families. Booking is essential with Helen’s Heritage Walks on 01274 532425 or email [email protected].

For more information see www.helensheritagewalks.co.uk. Children must be accompanied by an adult.