Here’s the story…
The journey begins with the hard-work and unwavering dedication of a group of people focused on a single cause- to protect Bakewell’s iconic Love Locks, and to prevent the memories of over 40,000 people from being destroyed and melted down.
Led by Richard Young, the Save the Love Locks group was formed. This group has campaigned tirelessly, their end-goal clear: to find a safe, forever home for these locks, where they will be stored, treasured, and appreciated for many years to come.
That’s where Thornbridge comes into the story…
A long-time wedding and events venue, we know a little something about celebrating love. Through weddings, birthday parties and family fun days out, we’ve enjoyed acting as a space where people can celebrate love and create special, forever memories with family and friends.
With the generous support of Markovitz, Gripple, the Metal Store, TDP and generous donations from members of the public, Thornbridge has been able to begin construction on a new, permanent structure to house and protect the Bakewell Bridge Love Locks forever.
Introducing, the Thornbridge Love Locker…
Emma’s hand-drawn plans for the Thornbridge Love Locker
The new structure is made up of 288 separate wires- all of which represent the original bays on the bridge. This means that people will be able to find their locks on the Love Locker. We have a team of over 100 incredible volunteers who will be re-threading locks onto the structure and helping us to get everything ready for the grand opening.
The Love Locker is sit alongside Quackers Cafe, easily accessible and FREE to visit. It has been designed not only to store these precious memories, but also with the future in mind. There will be space for new locks to be added alongside the existing ones.
The Love Locker opened on the 14th February 2025
More information can also be found at Save the Love Locks.
The story featured on BBC’s One Show on Valentine’s Day
