Things to do in West Yorkshire

Scroll

There are plenty of things to do and places to visit in West Yorkshire, continue to find out more about the famous cities and towns located in the inland county.

Leeds

Leeds is Yorkshire’s culture centre and is a must visit when in Yorkshire. There’s plenty of attractions to keep all entertained. Leeds is the place to go if you are in need of retail therapy! With hundreds of designer shops including Harvey Nichols you’ll be spoilt for choice. Or there’s plenty of vintage shops to choose from if you’re looking for something with less of hefty price tag.

Leeds is a vibrant city that is full of exhibitions, shows and plays. The Northern Ballet Theatre, Opera North and The West Yorkshire Playhouse are must visits when it comes to live performances. For those interested in art, head to the Henry Moore Institute or Leeds Art Gallery. Or if you want to learn a bit about Leeds’ heritage visit The Thackeray Medical Museum, or Kirkstall Abbey.

Bradford

Bradford is one of Yorkshire’s best kept secrets and has so much to offer visitors. If you are a fan of film Bradford won’t disappoint as it is a UNESCO City of Film. Bradford also has the only Imax cinema in Yorkshire! Or head to the National Media Museum and discover the past.

Bradford has it all when it comes to attractions, and you’ll find something for all ages when visiting. It is one of the most interesting and diverse areas of Yorkshire. If you’re looking for a thrill Bradford has plenty of opportunities for visitors to try their hand at outdoor activities. If you’re an experienced rock climber the ‘Cow and Calf Rocks’ are the perfect place to go. Or if you’re a keen walker there’s plenty of walking trails to help you explore the stunning countryside!

Saltaire

If you’re visiting West Yorkshire then a must visit is to the village of Saltaire which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Saltaire was created by Sir Titus Salt, a leading industrialist in the Yorkshire woollen industry.

Today the mighty Salts Mills has been transformed and houses galleries including the David Hockney Gallery, shops, restaurants and cafes. Saltaire is a haven for creatives including artists, writers and museums. If you are visiting in September, why not visit the Saltaire Festival which is a celebration of music and art. Or there’s the Saltaire Arts Trail that offers a variety of arts and crafts family attractions.

Ilkley

Ilkley is quaint town that is situated in the Yorkshire Dales. If you’re planning a walking holiday then Ilkley provides visitors with the perfect base to explore the Dales. Ilkley is also the perfect place for climbers and the Cow and Calf Rocks are a must visit.

Ilkley is home to some of the best tearooms in Yorkshire, so after you’ve spent the day exploring the marvellous countryside and rolling hills, why not sit back a relax in one of the charming tea rooms on offer such as Betty’s Tea Room.

Or if you’re in need of a bit of retail therapy Ilkley has plenty of fantastic boutiques and independent shops to suit all tastes and budges. Those visiting who are foodies won’t be disappointed as Ilkley is home to Lishman’s – one of the finest butchers in the UK – definitely try one of their award winning sausages or pies!

Photo by Rafik Wahba on Unsplash

County Map

Pubs in The County