Blog post, four-minute read.
On our doorstep
Bradford is right at the heart of northern England.
It's surrounded by beautiful countryside and historic towns and villages. Some of the UK's most exciting cities are just a short trip away.
The city centre has two train stations and a bus station, with regular links to some amazing places. We've pulled together some of our students' favourite places - there's something for everyone.
Hebden Bridge
Hebden Bridge is known for its creative and free-spirited locals. The town is a 25-minute train journey from Bradford. For a small place there’s lots going on, from gorgeous walks at Hardcastle Crags, to afternoon tea in a quirky coffee shop.
The town is full of independent shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants – its high street is famously devoid of chains.
There are loads of events going on throughout the year. You'll find everything from a folk music festival to a steampunk weekend, craft markets and the Happy Valley Pride event.
Manchester
The UK’s third largest city, Manchester, is less than an hour’s train journey from Bradford Interchange.
It’s a great place for food and drink. The Northern Quarter’s bustling streets are full of independent bistros and pubs.
There's also Canal Street, home to the city's famous Gay Village. This vibrant LGBTQ+ friendly area hosts various restaurants, bars and clubs.
Manchester is home to two of the world’s biggest football clubs, Manchester City and Manchester United, and is a must-visit destination if you’re a football fan.
It’s also known for its music. Home to world-famous bands like Oasis and The Smiths, Manchester offers fantastic music venues like the Albert Hall and Manchester Academy.
Huddersfield
Huddersfield is a large town that’s easily accessible from Bradford by train or bus.
There’s a mix of big-name brands and hidden gems around the town centre. Visit the Kingsgate Shopping Centre to browse the high-street retailers.
Foodies can enjoy the independent cafes and restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets. There’s also a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs across the town.
Fans of rugby league or football can visit the John Smith’s stadium to watch a Huddersfield Giants or Huddersfield Town match.
Saltaire
Saltaire is a world heritage site, founded by Titus Salt in the 1800s. The village sits on the river Aire and its cobbled streets are lined with Victorian terraced houses.
You can get to Saltaire in 15 minutes on the train from Bradford Forster Square station.
Salts Mill is home to the David Hockney Gallery. His work is a part of the British pop artist movement of the 1960s. The building is also home to Salt’s Diner. Sit down and enjoy a burger and a milkshake.
On the village’s main street, there are independent retailers and cafes. Near to the train station, you can take a walk along the Leeds Liverpool canal or through Roberts Park.
Haworth
Haworth is a scenic village located to the west of Bradford. It was the home of the Bronte sisters in the 1800s and has become a pilgrimage for literary enthusiasts. Between them, the sisters wrote Jayne Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall.
To get there, catch the train to Keighley and ride the steam train along the Worth Valley Railway.
The main street is dotted with cafes, pubs and independent shops. If you're into walking Haworth is surrounded by places for amazing walks with gorgeous scenery.
Leeds
Yorkshire’s largest city is just 20 minutes away on the train.
Great for shopping, the Leeds Corn Exchange, Victoria Quarter and Trinity Leeds are full of shops, from high street and high-end, to independent boutiques and market stalls.
Leeds has a thriving arts and museum scene. Famous sites like the Royal Armouries, Kirkstall Abbey and Leeds Art Gallery are all a short journey from the train station.
It’s also great for food and drink. Call Lane has been the cornerstone of Leeds nightlife for decades. It has a range of trendy bars and restaurants. It’s the same story at Granary Wharf, a regenerated development on the Leeds waterfront, and Greek Street in the city centre.
More about places on our doorstep
Explore places surrounding Bradford through the links below:
Blog post, five-minute read.