48 hours at Bradford 2025 for outdoor explorers
This two-day City of Culture itinerary takes you through moorland, woodland and riverside trails that feel a world away, yet sit at the heart of the district’s identity.
Published: June 27, 2025
Bradford’s landscape has always been a source of inspiration - for artists, writers, walkers and daydreamers. As City of Culture, Bradford isn’t just celebrating its creativity - it’s inviting you to walk through it.
Day 1: Brontë Country & Wild Uplands
Morning
- Take in the wild beauty of the moors above Haworth. The Wild Uplands landscape helped inspire the famous Wuthering Heights by Charlotte Brontë.
- For something unique, try Earth & Sky – an immersive GPS-triggered soundwalk across the moors.
- If you want to discover more about the literary Brontë sisters and you can visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth.
Lunch
Fuel up in one of Haworth’s independent cafés:
Cobbles & Clay – bright, homely and great for families.
Villette Coffee House and Bakery – ideal for lunch or a proper brew.
Or bring a packed lunch and stop on the moor for panoramic views.
Afternoon
- Stretch your legs on a self-guided BD on Foot walk – from gentle circulars to more challenging trails around the District.
- Want woodland, a nature reserve and great facilities? Head to St Ives Estate in Bingley – a local favourite for outdoor family days.
- Or perhaps explore Bingley’s seven wonders of the waterway at the Bingley Five Rise Locks.
Evening
Head into Bingley for a relaxed end to the day:
The Brown Cow – a cosy, family-friendly pub.
Reuben’s Beer & Gin House – charcuterie boards and drinks.
The Potting Shed – good food, buzzing atmosphere, and live music nights.
Day 2: Ilkley & Wharfedale
Morning
- Start with a walk up Ilkley Moor – don’t miss the dramatic Cow & Calf rocks – an iconic West Yorkshire view.
- Need a pit stop? The Cow and Calf pub sits just beneath the rocks and is great for brunch, lunch or a well-earned pint.
Lunch
Pack a picnic or stop off in town before heading to Ilkley Riverside Gardens to eat with a view.
Food ideas:
Bettys Café Tea Rooms – classic Yorkshire tearoom.
La Stazione – great coffee and a casual vibe.
Thirty Nine – stylish café and bakery.
Veggie Café Ilkley – deli-style food.
Brooks – Sri Lankan small plates.
Afternoon
Choose your pace:
- Head to East Riddlesden Hall for a gentler stroll and a glimpse of 17th-century manor life.
- Or follow this moderate BD on Foot walk through woodland and open fields around East Riddlesden & Low Wood.
- Visiting in summer? Cool off with a dip at Ilkley Lido – a unique open-air pool with countryside views.
Evening
- Catch a show at the Ilkley Playhouse or the King’s Hall & Winter Garden.
- During July and August you can catch a performance of The Railway Children, live on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. Don’t miss the train!
Dinner ideas:
Emporio Italia – rustic, family-run Italian.
Ilkley Moor Vaults – family-friendly pub.
Ilkley Tap – brewery taproom with small plates and pizza.
Friends of Ham – wine, craft beer and charcuterie.
Yorkie Cow – famous for giant Yorkshire puddings.
Make it a weekend to remember!
Explore more cultural events and plan your overnight stay.
