Wainhouse Tower - Halifax

If you approach Halifax from the west - this tower is very prominent on the skyline.
It is in fact a mill chimney which was never used as a 'chimney' but ended up a 'folly'.
Originally started as a chimney for a dye works lower down in the valley. Whilst it was being built the dye works was sold, but the new owner would not buy the chimney.
The original owner decided to transform the chimney into "a general astronomical and physical observatory". The tower was finally completed in 1875 at a total cost of £14,000 in this very elaborate style.
It stands 253 ft tall and is the tallest structure in Calderdale and the tallest folly in the world.
On Bank Holidays it is open to the public and you can tramp up 403 steps inside the tower for some magnificent views from the viewing platforms.