Worsthorne takes its name from Wordestorn which means a homestead. It was owned in the 13th century by Henry de Worst.

There is plenty to discover about Worsthorne and its surrounding area.

Worsthorne is an attractive amalgam of 16th century and 17th century cottages plus blocks of millworkers dwellings dated to the early years of the Industrial Revolution.

Some modern building has not destroyed the tranquillity of the settlement which is overlooked by the moorlands of Hameldon Hill.

Close to Swinden reservoir about a mile to the north east of the village are a number of earthworks and the remnants of stone circles showing that the area has been settled since the late stone, bronze and iron ages.

Worsthorne has a small but attractive green and a spacious square overlooked by the church of St John and the Crooked Billet pub.

It was a tradition in medieval England to have a religious settlement and a pub close together so that those travelling from a distance to worship could find somewhere to rest.

The present church only dates to the early 19th century but the influence of the Thursby family has meant that the building looks much older.

The entrance is guarded by some of the most impressive wrought iron work to be seen anywhere in Britain.

As for the rumours of the trapped witch, on the road to Haggate is the Roggerham Gate Inn close to which is the Noggarth Cross and it marks an ancient trade route.

Some say it is the weight of the building that holds down an evil witch.