Howden-le-Wear is a quiet village not far from Crook.

The earliest evidence of occupation in the area is a bronze axe, probably of Bronze Age date. However, few other remains earlier than the medieval period are known. It is possible that there was once a deserted medieval village at Harperley, though there are no remains to be seen today. Nearby is Low Harperley Hall- it was built in the 17th century and altered in the 18th century, though it is likely that there was once an earlier, medieval building on the site.

One of the more unusual sites to be seen in Howden is a Wurlitzer theatre organ. These great organs used to be used in cinemas in the early 20th century, when they were used to play music to accompany the films and during intermission in the show. A group of enthusiasts saved this one from Bradford and re-housed at the New Victoria Centre in Howden.