Bradford grew rich on wool in the 19th century, and its grand Victorian buildings still show it. Today it is a diverse, creative city, named UK City of Culture for 2025, and a gateway to the moors and villages of West Yorkshire.
Why visit Bradford
For heritage, culture and food. There is a national museum, a UNESCO World Heritage village a few minutes away, the Brontë sisters’ home nearby and a long tradition of excellent South Asian cooking.
Top things to do in Bradford
National Science and Media Museum
Galleries on photography, film, television and the science of light and sound, plus big-screen cinemas.
City Park and Little Germany
The City Park mirror pool in front of the City Hall, and Little Germany, a quarter of ornate Victorian wool warehouses.
Saltaire
A UNESCO World Heritage Site: the model village built by mill owner Titus Salt, with Salts Mill, now home to galleries of David Hockney’s art, shops and cafés.
Haworth and the moors
The village of Haworth and the Brontë Parsonage Museum, where the Brontë sisters wrote their novels, about 30 minutes away.
Best time to visit Bradford
April to October is best for walking in Saltaire and on the moors. Museums, theatres and restaurants make it a good destination all year.
Getting to and around Bradford
Leeds Bradford Airport is about 25 minutes by car. Trains link Bradford with Leeds in about 20 minutes and with Saltaire, Keighley and the Yorkshire Dales line. From London, change at Leeds.
What to eat in Bradford
Bradford is famous for its curry houses, serving Pakistani, Kashmiri and Indian dishes, often cooked to family recipes.
Bradford FAQ
How long should I stay?
Two days for the city, Saltaire and a trip to Haworth.
Is Saltaire worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the best-preserved Victorian industrial villages in the world.
