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Things To Do Around Our Hotel In Ilkley

Plan Your Visit

Located in the heart of Yorkshire, we have so much to offer our guests during their stay. Whether you choose to experience one of the many activities within the immediate area or you would like to venture further afield, a stay in Yorkshire throws up all sorts of possibilities for things to see and do. After all, it is the largest historic county in England.

So, to make this your best Yorkshire holiday yet, we have rounded up the top things to do while you are here. From a day out in York to exploring the Yorkshire Dales you are going to be bowled over by this glorious region.

A Guide to Bradford

Bettys

Famous Afternoon Tea

This is one of the best things to do in Yorkshire if you just want to cosy up in a sweet little tearoom; enjoy a slice of cake or a delicious Fat Rascal in Betty’s Café Tea Rooms, an institution in North Yorkshire. This luxury chain, (with one in Ilkley) comprising six elegant cafés, was founded by a Swiss baker in 1919 and 100 years on, it carries on a historical feel with traditional cakes, crisp white tablecloths and waiting staff dressed in traditional uniform.

Visit Bettys Website

Ilkley Moor

A Natural Beauty Spot

You might have heard of the renowned folk song On Ilkla Moor Baht ‘at. But have you been to the place where it all began? Ilkley is a former spa town in West Yorkshire that plays home to vintage shops, cosy pubs, and a popular summer festival. Do not leave without hiking Ilkley Moor and hunting down the renowned Cow and Calf Rocks. You can go climbing here and the panoramic views are spectacular.

Visit Bradford Website

Haworth

Approximately 40 mins by car

This is where you will find the Brontë Parsonage Museum and you might like to visit St Michael and All Angels church next to the Parsonage, where all the Brontës except Anne are buried.

Close by and very worthwhile is a trip on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, where the film The Railway Children, based on E Nesbit’s popular novel, was shot.

Visit Brontë Parsonage Museum Website

Bradford

Approximately 45 mins by car

Bradford is worth visiting for the National Media Museum, a jewel of a resource for anyone who loves TV, films, photography, or more modern media such as videogames. Massive working dray horses and beautifully detailed period interiors are the main draws of Bradford’s Industrial Museum, on the other hand, which tells the story of the city that built its fortune on the textile industry. And 15th-century Bradford Cathedral is always worth a visit.

Visit National Media Museum Website

Halifax

Approximately 55 mins by car

Halifax is worth a visit for 15th-century, timber-framed manor house Shibden Hall, set in lovely Shibden Park with its model ride-on railway; also, award-winning children’s science museum Eureka, beautiful Halifax Minster, where astronomer William Herschel was once organist, and the world’s only surviving 18th-century cloth hall, now home to a host of specialist local shops, the spectacular Piece Hall.

Visit Shibden Hall Website

Venturing Further

Making the most of your stay

York

Exploring the city of York is one of the best things to do in Yorkshire, thanks to its fascinating Roman and Viking heritage and fantastic historical feel. Whether you are a history buff or not, you will be bowled over by its famous York Minster, charming, cobbled streets (check out The Shambles) and of course, the famed city walls. Kids will love the Jorvik Viking Centre.

York Railway Museum

Visitors of all ages flock to see the amazing collection of locomotives at the York Railway Museum, but little ones will be filled with excitement when they see a real-life Thomas the Tank Engine before them. Entry is free and you can step inside dozens of iconic trains, from the world’s fastest steam train to the only bullet train located outside of Japan. On certain days families can enjoy various workshops, science, and storytelling events.

You cannot visit the North Yorkshire coast without seeing the seaside towns of Scarborough and Whitby, both home to some of the best beaches in Yorkshire. Consider a stop in Staithes, a pretty fishing village where you can enjoy mouth-watering fish and chips and lovely sea views at The Cod & Lobster.

Harrogate

Nestled away in the beautiful Spa town of Harrogate is RHS Harlow Carr Gardens, which is one of England’s most relaxing and innovative gardens at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. Harlow Carr is a showcase of horticultural excellence located on the outskirts of Harrogate. Harrogate is also home to Valley Gardens.

Perfect for gin lovers, Slingsby Gin – known as The Spirit of Harrogate, taking its name from William Slingsby who discovered the unique properties of the natural spring water from the Tewitt well. They offer three fantastic gin experiences on-site.

Ripon and Ripley

Explore the small market city of Ripon – with its cobbled market square and impressive Cathedral you can easily spend a few hours soaking up the country charm of this North Yorkshire town.

Or Ripley. With a 700 year old castle boasting magnificent grounds which you can walk through, a deer park and walled gardens, you can also access a number of pretty walks and bike trails from the village. Don’t forget to visit the famous ice-cream shop before you leave!

Knaresborough

A market town full of surprises – a warren of medieval streets, a hilltop castle, picturesque riverside walks and the imposing railway viaduct ensure there is a stunning view around every corner. Mother Shipton’s Cave is another Knaresborough ‘must-see’ attraction. Born in 1488, Mother Shipton was one of England’s most famous prophetess and predicted many things that were to happen in the future. A fascinating place for visitors of all ages.

Located on the other side of Ripon and hailed as one of England’s finest houses Newby Hall & Gardens has plenty to discover both indoors and within the 25 acres of award-winning gardens.

Thirsk

The market town of Thirsk – best known as the home of vet, James Herriot. A central cobbled square still boasts a weekly market and some quirky independent shops to pick up a souvenir of your trip to Yorkshire.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

Take a walk to the amazing World Heritage Site and National Trust experience that is Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. You will discover the impressive ruins of a 12th century abbey, a stunning water garden and two cafes to enjoy.

Birmham Rocks

Another Yorkshire gem is the natural spectacle that is Brimham Rocks. These giant rock formations were created 100 million years ago when dinosaurs walked the earth.

Malhamdale and Malham Cove

Within the hour, and worth the drive is the 70-metre-high limestone cliff at Malham Cove, which has amazed visitors for centuries and is a highlight of any visit to North Yorkshire.

Skipton Market

If you like a bargain, love finding those treasures you don’t get on the high street, partial to some delicious local produce or just love the atmosphere of a market in full swing, Skipton Market is for you. Just 30 minutes from the hotel and open 4 days a week, traders arrive in the town centre and set up stalls along each side of the wide High Street. And they bring with them everything from cheeses to scarves, local meat to arts & crafts, shoes & boots to Yorkshire made blankets. Each day varies, and there is a rotating set of traders, meaning no day is quite the same.

Settle

An ancient market town with a market charter that was first granted by Henry III in 1249 and is a real gem.

The town is located at the gateway to Upper Ribblesdale at the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales.  Immediately overlooking the town is Castleberg, a 300 feet (91 m) limestone crag. Enjoy a scramble to the top and take in the views of Settle and Giggleswick – home to the famous Giggleswick school. In 1847 the town was connected to the railway network and the Settle-Carlisle Railway opened in 1875. Today you can enjoy a trip to Appleby or Carlisle on this line which passes over famous Ribblehead viaduct.

White Scar Cave is the longest show cave in Britain. It is 48 miles and one hour and 15 minutes from the hotel. The guided tour takes approximately 80 minutes and you will experience an underground waterfall and over a mile of underground tunnels.

If You Like History & Heritage

York

Visit the medieval city of York where you will be spoilt for choice! Visit the impressive spires and stained-glass windows of York Minster, take a walk around the original Castle Walls, get the best view of the city from Clifford’s Tower, marvel at the unrivalled collection of iconic locomotives at the National Railway Museum, meander through the Shambles or enjoy a leisurely boat trip along the River Ouse. On the outskirts of York, you can shop to your heart’s delight at the York Designer Outlet Centre. A great selection of high-end retail brands and food court awaits.

Harewood House – a tour of the interior and fine art collection takes you back in time as you move from the rich furnishings upstairs to a view of the servants’ quarters down below.

Saltaire is a World Heritage site on the outskirts of Bradford and home to Salts Mill. This Grade ll listed historic mill was built by Sir Titus Salt along with the village of Saltaire to house his workers in 1853. Playing host to many different exhibitions such as David Hockney’s gallery, Salts book and poster gallery, The Textile Process and Saltaire’s history.

Castle Howard, one of Britain’s finest historic houses and gardens, tells a story of ambition, public service, politics, and artistic endeavours. It has hosted many famous names in its time from film and TV as well as being used as a backdrop for music videos.

Be amazed by the Yorkshire Sculpture Park

If you prefer your art galleries al fresco, get yourself over to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, near Wakefield. With around 80 outdoor sculptures and a series of temporary exhibitions, this impressive open-air gallery features celebrated artists such as Antony Gormley, Elisabeth Frink and Damien Hirst. It is one the most unique days out in Yorkshire you will find.

Entertaining the Family

Lightwater Valley – with over 35 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, this theme park offers a great day out for all ages.

Flamingo Land – Flamingo Land offers a variety of offerings such as theme park rides, Zoo and children’s activities. Thrill rides for all ages from children to extreme riders and encounter different animals in the zoo and conservation area.

The Best of the Rest

Black Sheep Brewery – Masham Imagined by Paul Theakston in 1992, Black Sheep produces much loved cask, keg and bottled beers and continues to go against the grain with a flow of new and experimental brews. Take a fabulous and informative tour around the brewery and learn about the distinctive tastes and aroma of our beers.

Wensleydale Creamery based in the wonderful market town of Hawes is a fantastic place for cheese lovers and perfect for families. Wensleydale Creamery offers an interactive family experience including cheese-making viewing gallery and museum. You can also visit their tasting room and try samples of the different cheeses that they make. Visiting their fabulous café, restaurant and shop is a must.

So much to do...so little time

Making the most of your stay

When you’re looking for hotels in Ilkley, The Craiglands Hotel is the perfect choice. We are perfectly situated to visit the many amazing attractions in the area. There really is something to please everyone from historic, stately homes, children’s theme parks and scenic walks. You’ll never get bored staying at The Craiglands Hotel.