The Bronte Birthplace gets a royal reopening

Queen Camilla unveiling plaque with onlookers watching
The above photograph appears by courtesy of Matt Gibbons / Bronte Birthplace Ltd.

During a Royal visit to Bradford on 15th May 2025 Queen Camilla viewed the Bronte Birthplace in Thornton and unveiled a special plaque to mark the official reopening of the house following its aquisition by a local community group and subsequent restoration.

Queen Camilla reading with children at table
The above photograph appears by courtesy of Matt Gibbons / Bronte Birthplace Ltd.

Upon arrival Her Majesty was greeted by two children who presented her with a poem and a posy. She was then shown the famous fireplace where it is believed the Bronte sisters were born, and then in the scullery Her Majesty engaged in a creative literacy session with local schoolchildren who read aloud their thoughts on what it means to "Be More Bronte".

Before leaving Her Majesty signed the guest book and unveiled this commemorative plaque to mark the official reopening. This has yet to be mounted, and Her Majesty said before leaving "I would very much love to visit again to see where you have placed the plaque."

Commenting on the visit, the chair of Bronte Birthplace Ltd. Katherine Barnett said: "We are beyond proud to have welcomed Her Majesty to the Bronte Birthplace. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in our journey and one we are thrilled to be sharing with the community and Bronte enthusiasts around the world."

Meanwhile elsewhere in the city King Charles visited the Little Germany area, as well as Cartwright Hall in Lister Park.

In the very heart of the city centre itself the King and Queen together also visited the recently renovated Odeon building (now known as the "Bradford Live" concert venue) and met with locals from the Bradford area.

For more information about the visit please click here to view a summary on the official UK Royal Family website.

[News item posted by Eagle Intermedia with additional information and photographs supplied by Bronte Birthplace Limited - May 2025.]

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