28-01-2025
Cottage of Brontës' father to be sold via livestream auction
A derelict farm that was once home to the father of the Brontë sisters is set to be auctioned.
Thornbush Farm on Miry Lane, Liversedge, will be sold by Auction House West Yorkshire on February 5.
The Reverend Patrick Brontë's former lodging has a guide price of £380,000, plus fees.
While the property is currently in a derelict state, in the 19th century it featured two sturdy adjoining stone cottages and was better known as Lousy Farm.
In 1811, it became the home of the future Brontë patriarch, "marking"- per a spokesperson for Auction House - "the foundation of one of the most famous literary families in Britain."
The farm is set in 8.5 acres of land and has "gorgeous" countryside views.
The property, located in Liversedge, is said to command 'gorgeous' countryside views (Image: Auction House)
Because of the historical connections, the cottages are Grade II listed, and "in need of an owner who can restore or redevelop the site, subject to the right permissions."
The Reverend lived at the farm after taking up his first full ministry.
He lodged there with his landlords, Mr and Mrs Bedford.
While there, he met and married his wife, Maria Branwell, and they had the first of their two children, Maria and Elizabeth, who sadly died during childhood.
He also found time to author and publish 'Cottage Poems.'
During their time at the cottage, the family witnessed Luddite riots and a march on Rawfolds Mill, which bypassed their front door.
This event was later written about by Charlotte Brontë in her novel 'Shirley.'
The young family are thought to have remained at Lousy Farm until around 1815, thereafter living at Thornton, the birthplace of the authors Emily, Charlotte, and Anne, and of their brother, Branwell.
Commenting on the property, director and auctioneer of Auction House West Yorkshire, James Pank, said: "This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of a site with a fascinating history and perhaps restore or reimagine a vital piece of Britain's literary heritage."
Thornbush Farm in Liversedge will be sold via livestream auction on February 5 at 12pm.
To learn more about the property or to book a viewing, buyers can call Auction House West Yorkshire on 0113 393 3482 or visit
