BRADFORD
2018
DISCOVER
Discover Bradford
BRADFORD
EMERGING D ESTINATION 2018 INSPIRATIONAL PLACE
Working in partnership with Bradford Metropolitan District Council, Welcome to Yorkshire is thrilled to present this guide, created to inspire visitors of all ages to discover the many treasures that the region has to offer. The City of Bradford has a unique heritage with a whole host of awardwinning attractions and we’re immensely proud to showcase them in this guide alongside some of Yorkshire’s best producers and suppliers. We’re sure that you will be inspired and enjoy discovering them all for yourself. Sir Gary Verity, Chief Executive Welcome to Yorkshire
Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe
NO PLACE LIKE BRADFORD
Bradford is an award winning and vibrant place. We are a young and diverse city which means we offer visitors many great experiences in one. Bradford is known for and is proud of its culture and heritage, food, outdoor activities, architecture, literature and art. Where else can you enjoy two UNESCO sites, amazing countryside, alongside a city full of rich history and culture? There is no place like Bradford; with four unique areas all offering distinctive experiences. Whether you are a new or returning visitor, you can spend time in Haworth, home to literary greats, the Brontës, or take an invigorating walk on Ilkley Moor ‘Bah’t at’. Spend a lazy Sunday with Hockney in Saltaire or experience a prestigious West End show at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford. With all this and more to tempt you in, it’s no wonder Bradford has been named the ‘Emerging Destination 2018’ by the Luxury Travel Guide. We look forward to welcoming you to our marvellous City.
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CITY LIFE
CITY LIFE Bradford is the world’s first UNESCO City of Film due to its rich film heritage and inspirational movie locations. It is a cultural city with many attractions and an impressive history, which is reflected in the striking architecture found throughout. Take in the high profile exhibitions and interactive galleries at the National Science and Media Museum, which
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overlooks the multi award winning City Park, a beautiful water feature and an arena for a spectacular events programme throughout the year.
Discover Bradford
CITY LIFE
Bradford city centre is home to the Alhambra Theatre and soon to be renovated St Georges Hall. Both over one hundred years old, they offer a complementary mix of comedy and West End shows. Proud to have been one of the richest cities in the country due to its international recognition for wool, the Wool Exchange, built in the 19th Century, still shows the wealth and importance wool brought to Bradford through its architecture. Nowhere is this more evident than in Little Germany, a unique collection of 19th Century buildings, 55 of which are listed. A Bradford curry is a must when visiting the city but if you prefer more traditional cuisine there is plenty of choice. Try North Parade and quench your thirst with the wonderful varieties of real ale. Be wowed by Sunbridge Wells, an intricate maze of tunnels, which have been restored and now host a unique shopping, eating and drinking experience within characterful and quirky surroundings. For more shopping, visit Broadway Shopping Centre or the Kirkgate Shopping Centre, perfect for keeping up with the latest trends. Bradford city centre is packed full of exciting things to do whether you are visiting for a day or longer. So be bold and book your visit today.
The Arches – Forster Square
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THINGS TO DO
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A CULTURAL CITY Bradford is proud to be the world’s first UNESCO City of Film but did you know there is also a flourishing arts scene, fascinating exhibitions and beautiful theatres? Explore the city and discover some of our hidden gems. ALHAMBRA THEATRE
The spectacular Alhambra Theatre opened its doors in 1914 and is still a prime venue for high quality productions. Sit back and relax in this amazing venue whilst enjoying the superb architecture. Prior to the show why not enjoy drinks in the exclusive Laidler Bar or dine in style at the 1914 Restaurant which overlooks the city. www.bradford-theatres.co.uk
Photography by: Rob Ford Photography
BRADFORD PLAYHOUSE
Based in Little Germany in Bradford’s city centre, the theatre has a proud heritage, as a unique building with many of its historic features intact. The Bradford Playhouse, offers a wide range of events in the heart of Bradford, including theatre, film, music, exhibitions, comedy and dance. www.bradfordplayhouse.org.uk
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KALA SANGAM
Kala Sangam is a leading south Asian and collaborative arts organisation which aims to increase understanding and appreciation of the cultural traditions of South Asia. Kala Sangam has an exciting programme of events and performances. Why not try the Rooftop CafĂŠ an independent cafĂŠ which serves fresh and locally sourced food from the Yorkshire area. www.kalasangam.org
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Discover Bradford
THINGS TO DO
EXPLORE IMPRESSIONS GALLERY
Impressions Gallery is in the heart of the city, situated next to City Park. It is one of the UK’s most celebrated photography venues and is proud to support new and emerging talent. Free Entry. www.impressions-gallery.com
BRADFORD POLICE MUSEUM Located in Bradford’s historical City Hall, it provides a unique insight into the history of policing, criminal justice, civic enforcement and the development of crime and punishment in Bradford from the early 19th century onwards.
Visits to the museum include guided tours of the original Victorian cells and court built in 1873 which formed and has since been used for part of the original police station. Please check opening times before you visit.
THE PEACE MUSEUM
The Peace Museum occupies three small, unique galleries in one of Bradford’s many fine Victorian buildings. It is the only accredited museum of its kind in the UK and is a member of the International Network of Museums for Peace. The Museum is open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 10am till 4pm. Other times may be possible with prior arrangement. Group bookings and school visits welcome. www.peacemuseum.org.uk
www.bradfordpolicemuseum.com
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THINGS TO DO
EXPERIENCE NATIONAL SCIENCE AND MEDIA MUSEUM
The National Science and Media Museum is best known for its fantastic interactive exhibitions and excellent events programme. Visit the UK’s first IMAX theatre which opened right here in Bradford and see an exciting programme of 3D and blockbuster films for an all-embracing viewing experience. The £1.8 million state-of-the-art gallery
UNESCO CITY OF FILM
Bradford is the world’s first UNESCO City of Film. This title bestows international recognition on Bradford as a world centre for film because of the city’s rich film heritage.
WONDERLAB opened in spring 2017 and explores the science of light and sound. Visitors can step into a world of wonder, where what they see is only the beginning. Spectacular live experiments make visitors part of the show, and large-scale interactive exhibits will change how they see the world. It’s science but not as we know it!
In addition to its film heritage credentials Bradford also boasts a number of key film festivals and film related events throughout the year. To find out more visit www.bradford-city-of-film.com
Bradford has long been associated with film and filmmaking, dating back to the birth of cinema and is a key location for film and TV production due to its inspirational movie locations. The latest addition to this is the award winning TV series Peaky Blinders for which Bradford’s historic City Hall provided the backdrop. www.visitbradford.com
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ART & CULTU THEATRE IN THE MILL
For a different experience, seeing new innovative artists, then the Theatre in the Mill is a must do. See experimental theatre and edge of your seat artistic performances at Bradford University’s unique theatre. www.brad.ac.uk/arts
DYE HOUSE GALLERY
Retaining its architectural features and the charm of its origins as a dye house, the Dye House Gallery is a light contemporary space based in the Yorkshire Craft Centre at Bradford College. It is an outstanding venue for art exhibitions, performances, events, presentations and conferences. www.bradfordcollege.ac.uk/galleries/ Yorkshire-craft-centre
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Discover Bradford
DAVID HOCKNEY
THINGS TO DO
URE Photo: Tommy London/Alamy Stock Photo
BRADFORD UNIVERSITY GALLERY II
Gallery II is a University gallery which is open to the public. It is the base for touring contemporary visual arts exhibitions as well as the home of the University’s permanent art collection.
MUGHAL GARDENS, LISTER PARK
This unique attraction combines water and colourful plantings in an architectural style similar to that developed by India’s Mughal Dynasty. This is the first Mughal Water Garden to be built in the north of England.
CARTWRIGHT HALL, LISTER PARK
Bradford was the birthplace of the famous artist David Hockney and his work is proudly displayed in Cartwright Hall, Bradford and Salts Mill in Saltaire. A permanent gallery opened in 2017 to mark David Hockney’s 80th birthday. The gallery, which is dedicated to his life and work, is free and houses a collection of his early work, including sketches, paintings, iPad drawings, prints and photographs. www.bradfordmuseums.org www.visitbradford.com
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FOOD &
DRINK 14
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Discover Bradford
Photography by: Rob Ford Photography
THINGS TO DO
Bradford has a fantastic reputation for curry. Our Asian restaurants cook authentic dishes from Kashmir, Pakistan and India. So it’s no wonder Bradford Holds the title of ‘Curry Capital of Britain’ for the seventh year! Bradford’s West End is perfect for pre and after show drinks. The Brew Haus and Bierkeller offer an extensive range of craft beers and real ales. Head up to North Parade and try one of the buzzing independent real ale bars such as the Sparrow Bier Café or try Bradford’s newest addition Muddy Puddle for an exotic cocktail.
Sunbridge Wells offers a unique leisure experience. So whether you want a relaxing time with loved ones or a party night with friends, the fully restored maze of tunnels offers a host of different experiences in characterful and quirky surroundings. Visit Little Germany and enjoy freshly cooked food at Guzelian Cafe Bar and Gallery, or if you prefer a fine dining experience then head to Cona Restaurant for high quality home cooked cuisine with a twist. Alternatively dine with a fantastic view across City Park at Restaurant 1914 at the Alhambra Theatre, a perfect way to spend a Saturday evening in Bradford. www.visitbradford.com
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RETAIL THERAPY 16
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Discover Bradford
THINGS TO DO
Start at The Broadway shopping centre, located right in the heart of the city which offers an individual mix of independent stores, famous high street brands and a variety of eateries. Bradford’s newest shopping centre has a fun filled annual events calendar and is a great place for all the family to enjoy. Retailers within the centre include Debenhams, Marks and Spencer, Next, Topshop, Topman, H&M plus many more. Make your way to the ‘top of town’, where you can explore the independent shops around North Parade or the Oastler Shopping Centre on John Street – a market popular for its diversity and an amazing array of world food. Whatever you need you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for.
Pop into the Kirkgate Centre for established retail names. Don’t forget the Forster Square Retail Park near the Railway Station which includes some great high street brands. Keep an eye out for Waterstones in the magnificent Wool Exchange building on Hustlergate, a truly unique location. Bradford has more to offer than just high street names. It has some of the best Asian shops in the country, including Bombay Stores the UK’s largest department store. Here you will find beautiful fabrics, complete wedding outfits, gleaming jewellery and dainty shoes.
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Photography by: Rob Ford Photography
THINGS TO DO
A SURPRISING
CITY
Discover Bradford
THINGS TO DO
CITY PARK
City Park is Bradford’s brilliant multiaward winning high-tech water feature, the largest of its kind in the UK. The Park’s computer plays 100 fountains, laser lights, mist and water effects like a maestro conducting a glorious watery symphony. Millions of different combinations of effects can be produced. The space has gained a reputation for staging a fantastic, high quality
CITY HALL
City Hall is one of Bradford’s most iconic buildings. The Grade I listed building opened in 1873 and was then extended in the 20th century. The most striking feature is the magnificent clock tower that reaches 220 feet above Bradford’s skyline, it has thirteen bells, weighing 17 tonnes, which toll every fifteen minutes. The clock tower is Italianate, inspired by the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, whilst the façade of City Hall is adorned with
programme of events and is very popular with local people during the summer months. City Park is a great place to relax, meet friends or family and enjoy a breath of fresh air. City Park, Bradford has its own Facebook page and Twitter account @CityParkBD. So why not check in and share your photos using the free WiFi?
thirty five statues of rulers of England from the Norman Conquest up to Queen Victoria. Look out for dates when City Hall Opens its doors for ‘Sneaky Peeks’, a free self-guided tour where visitors can view historic rooms such as The Lord Mayor’s Office, Council Chambers and the Victorian Court room which has featured in the popular soap opera, Coronation Street.
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A CITY FULL OF
CHARACTER BRADFORD CATHEDRAL
UNDERCLIFFE CEMETERY
When it comes to exploring the city’s oldest buildings, a visit to the Cathedral is a must. With 13 vibrant centuries at the heart of the city, you will feel the thrill of history in this hidden gem. The present Cathedral is the third church to occupy the site, and at 500 years old the current Cathedral is Bradford’s most ancient place of worship.
Undercliffe Cemetery was opened in 1854 and has been described as one of the most striking achievements of Victorian funerary design due to its impressive 19th century monuments. Many of the rich, famous and notable inhabitants of Bradford have been buried here. You will also get impressive views of the city from the cemetery.
After entering the building take a look at the dazzling windows, they house some of William Morris’ earliest stained glass, and then look for sculptures by Flaxman and John Shaw. Make sure you leave time to enjoy one of the many art exhibitions in Artspace, musical events or organ recitals. Free Entry.
www.undercliffecemetery.co.uk
www.bradfordcathedral.org
WOOL EXCHANGE
The Wool Exchange was built as a wool trading centre in the 19th century, the architecture still shows the wealth and importance wool brought to Bradford. Today it is partly a Waterstones bookshop and café where you can admire the ornate ‘Venetian Gothic’ style and striking façade with carved portraits including Columbus and Francis Drake. Saunter into the book shop and be inspired by the high ceilings and marble columns.
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HERITAGE
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LITTLE GERMANY
The wealth generated from Bradford’s industrial past is most evident in Little Germany, where you will find a unique collection of 19th century buildings of which 55 are listed. These buildings were used by the German wool merchants, who built their imposing warehouses when the city had become the wool capital of the world. You will stand in awe at the magnificent buildings and carvings still on show. Whilst you are exploring the area look out for the grandad’s clock and chair on Chapel Street by the sculptor Timothy Shutter. This is an interpretation of a mill owner’s office with a comfortable chair, mirror and grandfather clock.
BOLLING HALL
Bolling Hall offers a fascinating journey through the lives of Bradford’s families for whom it provided a home for over 500 years. With parts of the building dating back to Medieval times, Bolling Hall is a rambling mixture of styles with every nook and cranny packed with history. Rooms are furnished and decorated to highlight different periods of time so spend some time exploring, but watch out for the ‘White Lady’ in the Ghost Room! Free Entry. www.bradfordmuseums.org
BRADFORD INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM
Moorside Mills was built in 1875 as a small spinning mill. Bradford’s Industrial Museum now houses permanent displays of textile machinery, steam power, engineering, printing machinery and motor vehicles, along with an exciting exhibitions programme. You can enjoy the splendour of Moorside House where the Mill Manager lived, or visit the Mill-workers’ terraced houses dressed to reflect three different time periods. www.bradfordmuseums.org
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SHEFFIELD
TO LONDON BY RAIL
TO LONDON BY RAIL
HOW TO GET HERE
Motorways A Roads Rail Routes Airports Heritage Coasts Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty National Parks Ferryport Bradford District
BRADFORD BY RAIL
BRADFORD BY SEA
Bradford is easy to get to from other parts of the country. Travel to Bradford with high-speed trains from either London North Eastern Railway and Grand Central services. Northern Rail also offer direct services to Bradford from the North West.
Ferry services to Hull and Newcastle link Bradford with Northern Europe. P&O ferries operate overnight services to Hull from Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.
BRADFORD BY AIR
Britain’s biggest and fastest highways cross Yorkshire from north to south and east to west, making getting to Bradford by car or by coach very simple. Multiple bus operators run services to Ilkley from Leeds and Bradford. For details of the quickest (or the most scenic) driving routes see the AA or RAC websites www.theaa.com and www.rac.co.uk.
International flights connect Yorkshire to the rest of the world, as well as UK flights from Aberdeen, Belfast, Glasgow, London Heathrow, Newquay and Southampton to Leeds Bradford Yorkshire’s Airport, Doncaster Sheffield Airport, Humberside Airport and Durham Tees Valley Airport.
BRADFORD BY ROAD
STAY IN
THE KNOW Keep up to date and tell us what you are up to through social media, we are on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as VisitBradford.
Bradford has a brilliant and exciting annual events programme. To find out about what’s on throughout the year visit www.visitbradford.com/events Look out for our Discover Guides, available for Haworth and Brontë Country, Ilkley and Saltaire. We can also provide a full Bradford Visitor Guide that covers the whole of Bradford and District. Contact our helpful team on 01274 433678 or go to our website www.visitbradford.com Don’t forget use
#visitbradford in your posts and tweets so we can share, like and retweet.
ENJOY
A STAY WITH US There are so many different places to stay in and around Bradford, which offer you the chance to fully explore everything on offer. You can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the peaceful countryside of Ilkley and Brontë Country, take in the rich heritage in the cosmopolitan city of Bradford or have the unique experience of staying in a World Heritage Site in Saltaire. So why not choose Bradford for your next break away? It is also an ideal location due to its excellent public transport links which allow you to explore the area whilst leaving your car behind. To find out more about where to stay visit: www.visitbradford.com/accommodation
The wording in this publication can be made available in other formats such as large print and Braille. Please call 01274 433678. Cover Photography by: Rob Ford Photography
Go to yorkshire.com and plan your brilliant break today.