Haworth, the second most visited literary shrine in the country after Stratford Upon Avon, has been snubbed in its bid to become a World Heritage Site.

The home of the famous Bronte sisters – they wrote their classic novels in the village parsonage – has failed to make it into the final 11 nominations.

It will not be joining Saltaire, which was made a World Heritage Site in 2001.

Bronte country was among 38 potential sites across the UK considered by experts. York also failed to make the grade.

Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council chairman Councillor John Huxley said: “It is disappointing. Clearly we think Haworth had a good case. We won’t give up.

“World Heritage status would have helped gain more recognition worldwide and perhaps attracted more funding to help maintain the area.

“We have been working with Bradford Council conservation officers to improve the village.

“The setts are being renovated and conservation officers are giving advice about how to maintain the heritage of the village. There is lots of work going on.”

Bronte Parsonage Museum director Andrew McCarthy said: “It is disappointing but we have to accept there is a lot of stiff competition from some amazing locations.

“But Haworth and its environment is a unique place and of national and international interest.”

District councillor Anne Hawkesworth, heritage champion for Bradford Council, said: “Obviously we are disappointed Haworth did not make the shortlist but there is always very tough competition and criteria to meet.

“It is essential that we continue to support Haworth as it is such an important and desirable tourist destination due to the Bronte connection and its beautiful setting.

“I believe Haworth will always draw in visitors which boosts the economy of the district as a whole.”

Announcing the list, Tourism and Heritage Minister John Penrose said: “Few places in the world can match the wealth of wonderful heritage we have available in the UK.

“The 11 places that make up the new UK tentative list are fantastic examples of both our cultural and natural heritage and I believe they have every chance of joining famous names like the Sydney Opera House and the Canadian Rockies to become World Heritage Sites.”

They range from the Lake District to the slate industry of North Wales, as well as the Forth Bridge and the Jodrell Bank observatory in Cheshire.