Visit West Yorkshire


Ah, welcome to the vibrant realm of West Yorkshire! This place is a delightful mix where lively cities, serene valleys, and expansive moorlands all coexist in harmonious contrast.

Notably, West Yorkshire has been a canvas for literary and artistic creativity for centuries, inspiring tales and artworks that have traversed time.

Here, you’ll witness a fascinating blend of the modern and the historic, exploring contemporary art and fashion, all set against a backdrop of captivating architectural marvels with deep-rooted histories. So, embark on an exploration where every moment in West Yorkshire is a new chapter waiting to be discovered in your travel story!

See the weather forecast for West Yorkshire.

Villages, Towns & Cities of West Yorkshire

Leeds city centre at night
  • Leeds – The largest city in West Yorkshire, known for its vibrant cultural scene, shopping, and universities.
  • Bradford – Renowned for its rich industrial heritage, cultural diversity, and architectural landmarks like the Alhambra Theatre and Bradford City Hall.
  • Wakefield – Famous for its cathedral, the Hepworth Wakefield art gallery, its annual Rhubarb Festival and its role in the War of the Roses.
  • Halifax – Known for the Piece Hall, Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, and its rich industrial history.
  • Huddersfield – Recognized for its Victorian architecture, the University of Huddersfield, and its beautiful surrounding countryside.
  • Dewsbury – A market town known for its medieval minster and rich textile industry heritage.
  • Pontefract – Famous for Pontefract Castle, the annual Liquorice Festival, and its historic market.
  • Batley – Known for its historic mills, the Batley Variety Club, and retail outlets.
  • Keighley – Recognized for the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, Cliffe Castle Museum, and its proximity to the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth.
  • Shipley – Known for Salts Mill in nearby Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its beautiful countryside.
  • Castleford – A town with a rich heritage dating back to Roman times, Castleford is known for its historic Roman fort, vibrant town center, and as a hub for rugby league, being home to the Castleford Tigers.
  • Morley – A bustling market town known for its historic town hall, Queen Street, and strong sense of community.
  • Ossett – Famous for its textile mills, annual beer festival, and the nearby National Coal Mining Museum for England.
  • Elland – A quaint town with a rich industrial history, Elland Bridge, and beautiful surrounding countryside.
  • Bingley – Known for the Bingley Five Rise Locks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and St Ives Estate, a country park with woodland walks.
  • Otley – A picturesque market town famous for Otley Chevin (a woodland park offering panoramic views), and its traditional Victorian street market.
  • Todmorden – Located on the border between West Yorkshire and Lancashire, known for its stunning landscapes, the historic Todmorden Town Hall, and a strong local food movement.
  • Sowerby Bridge – A historic market town renowned for its beautiful canals, vibrant arts scene, and the nearby countryside.
  • Hebden Bridge – A bohemian town known for its creative arts scene, independent shops, and the stunning Hardcastle Crags.
  • Ilkley – Famous for Ilkley Moor, the Cow and Calf rocks, and its reputation as a spa town in the Victorian era.
  • Mytholmroyd – The birthplace of Ted Hughes, former Poet Laureate, known for its scenic beauty and the annual Mytholmroyd Gala.
  • Holmfirth – Best known as the setting for the long-running TV series “Last of the Summer Wine,” this charming town is nestled in the Holme Valley, surrounded by beautiful Pennine countryside.
  • Pudsey – A market town located between Leeds and Bradford, known for its annual carnival, historic buildings, and Pudsey Park.
  • Baildon – Situated on the edge of the moorland, Baildon is known for its scenic beauty, Baildon Moor, and Shipley Glen.
  • Haworth – Famous worldwide for its association with the Brontë sisters, offering cobbled streets, the Brontë Parsonage Museum, and access to the moors.
  • Knottingley – Known for its historical ties to the glass manufacturing industry and its canal, which plays a key role in the town’s heritage.
  • Liversedge – A town with a rich industrial history, Liversedge has a mix of urban and rural landscapes, offering a glimpse into West Yorkshire’s past and present.
  • Wetherby – Although often considered part of North Yorkshire after administrative changes, Wetherby has historical ties to West Yorkshire and is known for its racecourse, Georgian architecture, and riverside walks.
  • Menston – A picturesque village known for its community spirit, beautiful countryside, and historical buildings.
  • Garforth – A town with a growing community, Garforth is known for its green spaces, local amenities, and convenient rail links to major cities.
  • Cleckheaton – Known for its market, historical industrial base in textiles, and the Spenborough Pool and fitness complex.

Hotels in West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire, a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a diverse array of accommodations to cater to the needs and preferences of every traveler. From the bustling city centers of Leeds and Bradford to the quaint, picturesque towns of Haworth and Holmfirth, West Yorkshire is home to a wide selection of hotels that promise a memorable stay. Whether you’re exploring the rich industrial heritage of the area, attending a business meeting, or embarking on a scenic outdoor adventure, you’ll find a hotel that fits your itinerary perfectly.

The Queens Hotel, Leeds

City Square, Leeds, LS1 1PJ, United Kingdom

Park Plaza Leeds

Boar Lane, City Square, Leeds, LS1 5NS, United Kingdom

Waterton Park Hotel

Walton Hall, Walton, Wakefield, WF2 6PW, United Kingdom

Oakwood Hall Hotel

Lady Lane, Bingley, BD16 4AW, United Kingdom

The Abbey Lodge Hotel

62 Kirkgate, Bradford, BD18 3EL, United Kingdom

Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Rothwell Lane, Oulton, Leeds, LS26 8HN, United Kingdom

The hotels in West Yorkshire range from luxurious historic estates and boutique city hotels to cozy, family-run guesthouses and countryside retreats. Each establishment provides a unique window into the region’s charm, with many offering amenities such as fine dining restaurants, spa facilities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re seeking the convenience of a city location or the tranquility of a rural escape, West Yorkshire’s hotels are ready to welcome you with warm hospitality and ensure your stay is comfortable, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.


Things to do in West Yorkshire

Events in West Yorkshire


West Yorkshire buzzes with events year-round, offering something for everyone. From vibrant festivals in Leeds to historic reenactments in Halifax, the region’s calendar is packed with cultural celebrations, music gigs, and sporting events. Whether you’re into arts, history, or outdoor adventures, West Yorkshire’s diverse events showcase the region’s rich heritage and contemporary creativity.

Face Your Fears! at Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park, West Yorkshire

Hell Lane, Off Black Road, West Yorkshire, WF1 5SH

Date & Time:

November 1st, 2024 9:30pm

Face Your Fears! at Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park, West Yorkshire

Hell Lane, Off Black Road, West Yorkshire, WF1 5SH

Date & Time:

October 11th, 2024 9:00pm

Face Your Fears! at Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park, West Yorkshire

Hell Lane, Off Black Road, West Yorkshire, WF1 5SH

Date & Time:

October 12th, 2024 7:00pm

Face Your Fears! at Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park, West Yorkshire

Hell Lane, Off Black Road, West Yorkshire, WF1 5SH

Date & Time:

October 13th, 2024 8:30pm

Face Your Fears! at Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park, West Yorkshire

Hell Lane, Off Black Road, West Yorkshire, WF1 5SH

Date & Time:

October 20th, 2024 8:30pm

Face Your Fears! at Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park, West Yorkshire

Hell Lane, Off Black Road, West Yorkshire, WF1 5SH

Date & Time:

October 17th, 2024 7:30pm

Discover West Yorkshire’s lively event scene, where each town and city brings its own flavor. Experience live music in Bradford, food festivals in Huddersfield, and literary events in Haworth. With an ever-changing roster of activities, West Yorkshire promises exciting discoveries for visitors and locals alike.


Attractions in West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire is a treasure trove of attractions, blending historical sites with modern wonders. Visit the majestic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds or ride the vintage trains on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. Art lovers will marvel at the Hepworth Wakefield gallery, while history buffs can explore the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth. From the lush landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales to the bustling city centers, there’s an attraction for every interest.

Shibden Hall

Lister’s Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6XG

M&S Archive

Michael Marks Building, University of Leeds, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9LP, United Kingdom

Go Ape Temple Newsam

Temple Newsam Estate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 0AD, United Kingdom

Hickory’s Smokehouse Horbury

Bennett Avenue, Horbury, Wakefield. WF4 5HJ

Wetherby Racecourse

Wetherby Racecourse,, York Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 5EJ, United Kingdom

Whether it’s outdoor adventure in Ilkley Moor, shopping in Leeds’ vibrant city center, or exploring the scientific marvels at Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax, West Yorkshire offers endless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment. Each corner of this region promises unique experiences, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking variety and charm.


West Yorkshire FAQ’s

Which areas are in West Yorkshire?

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority comprises the West Yorkshire local authority areas of Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield, plus the City of York. This area is the UK’s largest economic area outside London with a population of over 2.3 million.

What are the 5 towns in West Yorkshire?

There is a district around Wakefield called the Five Towns (Pontefract, Castleford, Knottingley, Featherstone and Normanton).

Is West Yorkshire nice?

West Yorkshire is a beautiful county with a lot to offer to both professionals and families alike.

What is the capital of West Yorkshire?

Leeds – After London and Birmingham, the third-largest city in the United Kingdom is Leeds. It is a city located in the northern county of Yorkshire and is the largest city in West Yorkshire.

What is West Yorkshire famous for?

Rhubarb – The Rhubarb Triangle between Wakefield, Leeds & Bradford had a brief commercial success with the mass cultivation of rhubarb, owing to the nitrogen rich soils and the “frost pocket” of cool growing conditions. The darkened finishing sheds for the rhubarb helped to sweeten and de-toxify the end product with harvesting done by candlelight. There is an annual rhubarb festival in Wakefield.

West Yorkshire Fact Pack

  1. West Yorkshire is a metropolitan county in the north of England, with a population of over 2 million people.
  2. The county is divided into five districts: Leeds, Bradford, Kirklees, Calderdale, and Wakefield.
  3. The River Aire and River Calder both flow through West Yorkshire, and the county is also home to a number of reservoirs.
  4. The county is known for its beautiful countryside, including the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Peak District National Park.
  5. West Yorkshire is home to a number of historic castles and ruins, including the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey and the medieval fortress of Pontefract Castle.
  6. The county is also home to a number of modern landmarks, including the Emley Moor transmitting station, which is the tallest freestanding structure in the UK.
  7. Leeds, the largest city in West Yorkshire, is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and cultural scene.
  8. Bradford, another large city in the county, is known for its diverse population and rich history of textile production.
  9. The Bronte sisters, famous authors of classic novels such as “Wuthering Heights” and “Jane Eyre”, were born in West Yorkshire and lived there for much of their lives.
  10. The Yorkshire pudding, a traditional British dish made from batter, is said to have originated in West Yorkshire.
  11. The county is home to a number of universities, including the University of Leeds, the University of Bradford, and the University of Huddersfield.
  12. The West Yorkshire Police force is one of the largest in the country, serving a population of over 2 million people.
  13. The county has a number of sports teams, including Leeds United Football Club, Huddersfield Town Football Club, and Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
  14. West Yorkshire has a rich history of mining, with coal being one of the county’s most important industries for many years.
  15. The Hockney Trail, a tour of locations featured in the works of artist David Hockney, runs through West Yorkshire.
  16. The county is also known for its rich musical heritage, with bands such as The Cribs, The Kaiser Chiefs, and The Sisters of Mercy all hailing from the area.
  17. The town of Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, and was named the fourth coolest town in Europe by The Guardian in 2013.
  18. The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, a heritage railway line that runs through West Yorkshire, was featured in the classic film “The Railway Children”.
  19. West Yorkshire is home to a number of nature reserves and wildlife habitats, including the RSPB Fairburn Ings nature reserve.
  20. The county has a number of historic market towns, including Otley, Hebden Bridge, and Skipton.
  21. West Yorkshire is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional pies, curries, and fish and chips.
  22. The county is home to a number of cultural festivals and events, including the Leeds Festival, the Ilkley Literature Festival, and the Holmfirth Folk Festival.
  23. West Yorkshire has a rich industrial heritage, with many former textile mills and other industrial buildings still standing today.
  24. The county has a number of beautiful parks and green spaces, including Roundhay Park in Leeds and Shibden Park in Halifax.
  25. West Yorkshire is a diverse and vibrant county, with something to offer for everyone, whether they are interested in history, culture, nature, or modern amenities.