There are many reasons to come to Ilkley. It is so much more than a Victorian Spa town, with its excellent restaurants, quality shops and magnificent countryside.
Situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the picturesque River Wharfe runs through the town and there are views of Ilkley Moor in every direction. The moor is ideal for walking, climbing and other outdoor sports, and from the landmark ‘Cow and Calf’ rocks there are panoramic view of Warfedale.
Places to Visit
- The Bolton Abbey Estate has excellent walking, day fishing and cafes, as well as the famous 12th century Bolton Abbey Priory to explore.
- Haworth ~ home to the Bronte Family, Bronte Parsonage Museum, church and family Vault.
- Saltaire ~ The Salts Mill and Saltaire village are an UNESCO World Heritage Site, uniquely developed in the nineteenth centurary as a model village by Titus Salt for his mill workers. Today it is home to the David Hockney Gallery, interesting shops and cafes.
- Emmerdale (the TV soap) was set originally in Arncliffe in Lyttondale. Later the filming took place for many years in Esholt and now takes place at a purpose built village at Harewood House ~ 20 minutes away by car.
- Harrogate, Leeds and York ~ all easily accessible, and wonderfully historic towns with great shopping.
- For walkers ~ The Dales Way starts in Ilkley and is a long distance walk to Bowness in Cumbria. The Yorkshire Dales start in Ilkley ~ stunning Yorkshire landscapes to enjoy and villages to explore. Ilkley Moor.
- For sports enthusiasts ~ Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club, Ilkley Golf Club, Ilkley swimming pool and Lido ~ outdoor swimming with breathtaking views of the surrounding moors. Cycling ~ many good cycle paths, and Tandem hire available at J.D.Cycles in Ilkley. There is also good fishing and horse riding.
- Train Enthusiasts ~ Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway runs through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Also The National Railway Museum at York.
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