From Banking Legacy to Property Expertise - New Premises at Sowerby Bridge
Nestled in the heart of Sowerby Bridge, the grand stone façade at 21–27 Town Hall Street has witnessed over a century of change, from the industrial age to the digital era. Today, this historic building is preparing for an exciting new chapter as the future home of Ryder & Dutton Halifax, bringing together the town’s rich past and its promising future.
A Building Built on Trust
The story of this iconic address begins in the late 19th century. In 1872, the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank was officially registered, with its head office in Manchester. As industry and commerce flourished across Northern England, so too did the demand for stable, local banking services. Sowerby Bridge, a hub of textile manufacturing and canal trade, was the perfect place for the bank to establish a branch, and so it did, right here at 21–27 Town Hall Street.
Fast forward to 1928, and the banking landscape shifted. The Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank merged with the Bank of Liverpool and Martins Bank to form Martins Bank Limited, a name that would become known for professionalism and innovation. The Sowerby Bridge branch continued to operate under this new banner, serving local businesses and residents alike, alongside a second location at 7 Town Hall Street, originally home to the Halifax Commercial Bank.
By 1930 it was clear that two branches were unnecessary for one town and the bank’s operations were consolidated, with the business from 7 Town Hall Street transferred to 21–27 Town Hall Street where they operated until their closure in 2005.
For more on the building’s banking history, visit: Martins Bank Archive
A New Chapter with Ryder & Dutton, Halifax
At Ryder & Dutton, we understand the value of heritage. That’s why we’re proud to be moving into this remarkable building, not just to occupy a new office, but to become part of its ongoing story.
As one of the leading estate agents in the region, we bring a legacy of our own: Over 100 years of experience helping people buy, sell, rent, and invest across West Yorkshire and beyond. Our move to 21–27 Town Hall Street signifies more than just growth, it’s a commitment to staying at the heart of the communities we serve.
From its roots in finance to its future in property, this building has always represented trust, service and local knowledge. And now, those values live on in our dedicated Halifax team.
We look forward to welcoming clients, old and new, through the doors of our new Sowerby Bridge office very soon. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a cherished family property or exploring the local market, we're here to help every step of the way.
