Hidden Gems of West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire is full of hidden gems, amazing venues and locations off the beaten track from your usual tourist spots. From hidden waterfalls and shaded canal walks to local museums and leafy cosey parks. Each district has much more than meets the eye, so read on to make sure you don’t miss these gems on your next visit.
Leeds: Beyond the City Centre
Kirkstall Abbey and the canal towpath running alongside it offer are just a short trip from the city centre and are loved by locals. You can cycle or walk along the canal, and stop along the way by visiting many of the cafes for refreshments. You can visit the Leeds Industrial Museum, between the city centre and Abbey, to learn about the history of the canal and how it was the lifeblood of Leeds industrial past.
Bradford: The Wider District
Bradford's cultural reputation tends to centre on the city itself, but the wider district, including moorland areas like Baildon Moor, has some of the region's most striking landscapes, particularly during seasonal outdoor events.
Ilkley Moor has some amazing views over the Wharf Valley, and the Cow and Calf are great photo opportunities to capture the stunning views. For more amazing viewing spots from around West Yorkshire, read our blog about them here. Bradford also includes Bronte country, and the famous Bronte Way lets you walk through the pages of your favourite novel.
Calderdale: Small Towns, Big Character
Halifax gets most of the attention, but Calderdale's smaller towns and villages, connected by some of the region's best walking routes, reward longer visit.
Kester Hole Waterfall is about as hidden as you can get, and is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by a typically stunning West Yorkshire landscape is hidden until you are almost in the water! You can stop for a picnic and a photo, taking in the scenery before you head back to your next adventure.
Kirklees: Quietly Excellent
Kirklees is a real hidden gem of a district, boasting beautiful landscapes and quaint villages and towns perfect to get away from the beaten track. Villages like Kirkburton host cosy small-scale arts events without the crowds of the bigger city centre programmes.
Beaumont Park is a local favourite in Huddersfield offering tranquil walks and picturesque spots perfect to get out of the hustle and bustle of the town centre.
Wakefield: Hidden local History
Wakefield Museum at the Wakefield One building and tells the story of this historic town better than anywhere else in the area. Regularly changing exhibitions and family friendly activities highlight the vibrancy of the district already steeped in culture.