West Yorkshire Travel Guide

England

Leeds Park Square featuring heritage architecture and a park
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery featuring heritage architecture, a garden and a fountain
West Yorkshire
Corn Exchange which includes interior views and heritage architecture
West Yorkshire

With superb landscapes and inviting attractions, West Yorkshire is the perfect location for a short midweek break or weekend away.

Whether you’re looking for excitement or simple relaxation, West Yorkshire has plenty of activities to suit all needs.

Leeds and Bradford are West Yorkshire’s two adjoining cities, both founded in the midst of the industrial revolution. These cities are now prime tourist destinations with museums, galleries and, of course, popular restaurants and bars all contributing to their appeal.

Beyond West Yorkshire’s two main cities is a landscape of wide open moorland countryside with small towns and cotton mill villages dotted throughout. The remnants of the wool industry is still visible throughout with rows of weavers’ cottages in the valleys across this Yorkshire countryside, brilliantly described by the famous Bronte sisters.

West Yorkshire accommodation caters for all, from fully integrated backpackers’ barns in the Yorkshire countryside to top class accommodation. If its spa boutique hotels you seek then look to West Yorkshires city hotel’s, or head to the countryside for your more down to earth family run guest houses.

When in West Yorkshire, get out and explore the wide open countryside, the perfect getaway from city life. With a selection of walks to choose from, let that inner rambler escape and enjoy what the Yorkshire countryside has to offer.

If you enjoy museums and are keen to learn more of the history and culture of West Yorkshire then you will not be disappointed with a visit to the many museums in the area. Museums include The Royal Armouries in Leeds, National Media Museum in Bradford and the fantastic National Coal Mining Museum. Situated in Overton, the National Coal Mining Museum is a fantastic day out with numerous outbuildings to explore and interactive exhibitions that bring the whole mining story to life.

While in Leeds visit the local Kirkgate Market, believed to be the largest covered market in Europe. Playing host to over 800 traders selling everything from exotic food to fashion fabrics it makes for an excellent alternative experience, far better than that normal shopping trip.

Take the family to Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The site is spacious with plenty of wide open space for children to play in and a range of walking trails to choose from.

With Bradford recognised as the curry capital of Britain, this is clearly something you cannot miss. Bradford itself has a distinct and flourishing arts scene, with Bradford said to be the world’s first UNESCO City of Film. If you can squeeze a theatre visit into your trip you will not be disappointed.

Popular cities in West Yorkshire

Corn Exchange featuring street scenes and heritage architecture as well as a small group of people
Leeds
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Shopping
One of the United Kingdom’s fastest-growing cities, Leeds has transformed from an industrial centre into the definition of urban chic, with its innovative culinary scene, renewed Victorian-era mill district and edgy architecture.

Reasons to visit

  • O2 Academy Leeds
  • Leeds Grand Theatre
  • Millennium Square
Bradford City Park which includes a fountain and heritage architecture as well as a couple
Bradford
Known for Friendly people, Business and Theatres
Surrounded by the stunning Yorkshire countryside, this city is famous for its architectural gems, curry restaurants and UNESCO-recognized film industry.

Reasons to visit

  • Alhambra Theatre
  • National Science and Media Museum
  • Bradford City Hall
Wakefield
Wakefield
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Budget
Wakefield is calling! Discover its bars, castle, history and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Wakefield Cathedral
  • National Coal Mining Museum
  • Woolley Hall
Halifax
Halifax
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Theatres
Escape to Halifax! Enjoy its entertainment, history and casinos.

Reasons to visit

  • Shibden Hall
  • Halifax Borough Market
Keighley
Keighley
Known for Friendly people, Small town and Historical
Get away to quaint Keighley! Enjoy the culture, museums and gardens.

Reasons to visit

  • Bronte Waterfall
  • Top Withens
Huddersfield
Huddersfield
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Sports
Huddersfield is a true Yorkshire town, full of surprising qualities, strong traditions, shopping and exciting festivals.