A word frequently used in describing the West Yorkshire village of Tong is ‘unique’. The village is one element of the administrative ward of Tong, set between Bradford and Leeds, both cities which have developed as destinations for tourists in recent years, with Leeds now also a major draw for shoppers. The village was built between two valleys, and its name reflects this, Tang being the Old English word for fork, There is evidence that Tong was a Saxon settlement, as in Russian Doll style the present church of St James is built upon a 12th century church which in turn contained the foundations of a Saxon place of worship. The area was one of many manors held by Ilbert de Lacy after the Norman Conquest. What makes Tong unique is the fact that the Lords of the Manor, originally the de Tang family, then through many generations the Tempests, remained as masters of the land for hundreds of years, occupying the old manor and then the 17th century Tong Hall. The Tempests managed to keep much of the changing world at bay, almost Brigadoon style, preventing the employment of the area for industrial use or unsuitable development. By their actions the village retained a unique appearance, recognized in 1973 when it was made a conservation area. The locally quarried grit-stone and red brick used in the preserved houses make Tong stand out from the surrounding settlements, its 17th and 18th century houses, school, inn and vicarage giving the whole place an olde worlde air. The Tempests finally sold their holding in 1941, but the conservation area regulations ensure that any development work is appropriate, and as Tong Hall is Grad I listed it is to all intents and purposes sacrosanct. Just down the road from tong is an equally interesting settlement, well worth a detour. This is the Moravian village of Fulneck, founded by descendents of the Unity of Brethren sect which fled first the Czech lands and then Saxony, establishing the village in 1744
Places to Stay near Tong
Premier Inn Leeds Bradford (South) (1.56 miles)
Close to shops and local amenities Leeds city centre is only 6 miles away. Our Leeds / Bradford (South) Premier Inn has everything you'd expect, incredibly comfy beds in every room and an onsite Brewers ... More | visit websiteWoodlands Hotel (2.14 miles)
The Woodlands is a stylish contemporary hotel and restaurant set in beautiful landscaped grounds.
There are 18 individually designed bedrooms and a popular restaurant, awarded ‘Best Fine Dining Restaurant 2005’ and ‘Best Use of Local Produce ... More
Gomersal Park (2.34 miles)
Set in our extensive grounds the Gomersal Park Hotel is a deceptively quiet setting for a Hotel only a short distance from the centre of Leeds and Bradford. The good food and wine in ... More | visit website
Travelodge Bradford (2.37 miles)
There are loads of reasons our customers choose to stay at Travelodge. Our great value clean and comfortable rooms with en-suite provide everything needed for a good night's sleep and are close to where people ... More | visit website
Innkeeper's Lodge Leeds South (2.49 miles)
The Innkeeper's Lodge Leeds South is located four miles south of Leeds city centre on the A650, this lodge shares its grounds with the Toby Carvery restaurant at Morley. All ... More
Old Vicarage Hotel (2.84 miles)
The Old Vicarage built in 1893, formerly the home of the Vicars of Bruntcliffe, was purchased from the Church by the previous owners in 1977 and in 1986 the building ... More
Old Vicarage Hotel (2.84 miles)
Gomersal Lodge Hotel (3.33 miles)
Premier Inn Bradford South (3.40 miles)
Premier Inn Leeds City West (3.44 miles)
Ideally located within easy reach of the M62 and M1. Conveniently located for Leeds train station. For shops and local amenities Leeds city centre is only 0.5 miles away. Our Leeds City West Premier Inn has ... More | visit websiteBrit Quote: |
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