Hilly parks with hiking trails and dense woodlands overlook the preserved canal-side Victorian salt mills that today contain art galleries and shopping centers.
Shipley is a leafy and tranquil suburb of Bradford, characterized by its Victorian-era salt mills and parks. Its highlight is the Saltaire Village that contains rows of listed cottages and halls. Bring your family on hikes to the peaks of the grassy hills overlooking this town for spectacular views.
Explore the preserved mills and factories of Saltaire, a village built by Sir Titus Salt in the mid 19th century. You’ll get some of the best views of this old-world architecture by walking along the sides of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
Reach the mesmerizing Salts Mill, a former textile mill whose robust and uniform façade resembles a vast prison. Step inside for the range of shops, restaurants and art galleries, with a particular focus on the works of iconic artist David Hockney. Another converted highlight is Victoria Hall, where concerts and conventions are held.
On a warm day, bring supplies to have a picnic in the 14-acre (5.6-hectare) Roberts Park. Let your kids enjoy the playground, while teens gather in the skate park. Watch cricket or attend a concert in summer.
Back in the heart of Shipley, explore the hiking paths of Northcliffe Park. While here, you can also wander through the Northcliffe Woods and practice your swing at the Northcliffe Golf Club. Hike up to Baildon Moor or take the historic funicular of Shipley Glen Tramway to its namesake woods and hills. In rainy weather, try Go Bowling, the Shipley Swimming Pool and the Kirkgate Centre.
Find the town in the northern part of Bradford. Travel on a train from Bradford Foster Square to the Shipley railway station to get here in a little more than 15 minutes. Continue into the countryside for other attractions such as the St. Ives Estate, the Shipley Golf Course and the Bingley Five-Rise Locks.
Shipley is a preserved industrial town surrounded by hilly woodland and parks.