The spa town of Ilkley is an immensely popular destination for walkers and cyclists. Located in the Wharfedale region of West Yorkshire, it is the official starting point of the 84 mile Dales Way trail, which runs all the way up to Bowness-on-Windermere. It also provides an ideal base for those that wish to visit the Dales National Park at their own leisure.
Known for its Victorian architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene, Ilkley is a quintessential British town. The town’s rich history dates back to Roman times, with many historic landmarks and sites of interest. Ilkley is also renowned for its picturesque surroundings, with the rolling moors of the Yorkshire Dales providing a stunning backdrop.
The town of Ilkley is home to a range of attractions, from historic sites to cultural venues.
1. Ilkley Moor
No visit to Ilkley would be complete without a trip to Ilkley Moor. This iconic expanse of heather-covered moorland offers breathtaking views and a variety of walking trails. The famous Cow and Calf Rocks, a popular climbing and sightseeing spot, are a highlight. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, Ilkley Moor provides an unforgettable experience.
2. Ilkley Manor House
The Ilkley Manor House, located in the town centre, is a fascinating historical site. This Grade I listed building dates back to the 14th century and now serves as a museum and heritage centre. The museum’s exhibits cover the history of Ilkley, from its Roman origins to the present day. The Manor House also hosts regular art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.
3. Ilkley Toy Museum
For a unique and nostalgic experience, visit the Ilkley Toy Museum. This charming museum houses a vast collection of vintage toys, games, and dolls, providing a delightful trip down memory lane. The museum is a hit with both children and adults, offering a glimpse into the past through its extensive collection. This private collection of toys tells the story of childhood pursuits running from 350 BCE to the modern day. Much of the displays feature toys from the 1950s and ’60s, with classic puppet shows such as the The Thunderbirds being featured. There are also a number of Germanic wooden dolls from the early part of the 20th century as well as an English dolls house from around 1830.
4. Ilkley Brewery
Beer enthusiasts should not miss a visit to Ilkley Brewery. This award-winning brewery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and sample a range of locally produced ales. The brewery’s taproom is a cosy spot to relax and enjoy a pint, with friendly staff on hand to provide recommendations.
The Beauty of Ilkley Parks
Ilkley Park, often referred to as Riverside Gardens, is one of the town’s most treasured green spaces. The park stretches along the southern bank of the River Wharfe, offering visitors a tranquil setting to relax and unwind. The meticulously maintained gardens are adorned with colourful flowerbeds, towering trees, and manicured lawns, providing a feast for the eyes in every season.
One notable feature is the Victorian Bandstand, which hosts regular performances during the summer months. These concerts are a delightful way to experience the park’s cultural heritage and enjoy some live music in a beautiful setting.
1. Riverside Walks
One of the main attractions of Ilkley Park is its scenic riverside walks. The River Wharfe meanders through the park, creating a peaceful ambiance that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The well-maintained footpaths offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming bridges, quaint benches, and picturesque picnic spots, making it an ideal location for a family outing or a romantic walk.
2. Ilkley Lido
For those visiting during the warmer months, Ilkley Lido is a must-visit attraction. This historic open-air swimming pool, located within the park, offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The lido features a large pool, a smaller children’s pool, and a café serving refreshments. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a swim while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
3. Playgrounds and Family Activities
Ilkley Park is a family-friendly destination with a variety of activities for children. The park boasts several well-equipped playgrounds, complete with swings, slides, and climbing frames. There’s also plenty of open space for games and picnics, making it an ideal location for a fun-filled family day out.
4. Riverside Gardens and Wildlife
The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens are a highlight for many visitors. With a wide variety of plants and flowers, the gardens are a haven for horticulture enthusiasts. The River Wharfe also attracts a diverse array of wildlife, including ducks, swans, and other waterfowl. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting various species, while nature lovers can enjoy the tranquillity of the riverside setting.
While you undoubtedly came to this site to read about the Dales, there are many reasons to just visit the Ilkley alone. With a history going back as far as the Bronze Age, Ilkley offers much to see and do. The Victorian architecture on view is a sight to behold in itself, as is the town’s well-kept park areas.
It was during the Victorian era that Ilkley as we know it was really formed. Because of its natural spring waters, it established itself as one of the country’s leading spa towns and the great and the good of the time were soon booking out Ilkley’s hotels and guest houses.
One notable visitor was the naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin, who headed to Wells House to undergo water therapy shortly after completing his iconic work On The Origin of the Species in 1859.
Darwin had suffered with ill heath ever since returning from his voyage around the coasts of South America and the Galapagos Islands aboard the HMS Beagle. He believed his body could be purified with hydrotherapy and travelled to Ilkley take part in a type of treatment that included him drinking and bathing in cold water.
Another hydrotherapy tourist was the French artist Marie Tussaud, who later went onto form her chain of wax museums.
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Ilkley : Featured Accommodation
GARDEN COTTAGE, ILKLEY
A wonderful base for a holiday in Yorkshire.
An annexe property resting within the grounds of the main house in Ilkley, Yorkshire. It comes with one double bedroom and a shower room, making it ideal for couples or solo travellers. Garden with lawn and patio area.
“Excellent central location. literally a 10 minute walk to the town centre, trains buses and shops. Easy walk to Ilkley Moor and Riverside walks. The property is very comfortable and peaceful.”
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Even if you’ve never been to Ilkley before, there’s a strong chance you will have heard of the town. Despite having a population of less than 14,000 people, Ilkley is widely known due to it being the place featured in Yorkshire’s unofficial anthem ‘On Ilkla Moor Baht ‘at’.
Translated as ‘On Ilkley Moor without your hat’, the song originates from the early part of the 19th century and tells the tale of how a man is warned about courting his lover Mary Jane on the moor without any head gear because the harsh winds could lead to him “catching his death of cold”.
If walking or cycling is your thing then Ilkley Moor is well worth a visit before you head out to the wider expanses of the Dales. Forming part of Rombalds Moor, the area is rugged and picturesque. One of its most popular places for visitors is the Cow and Calf rocks on the moor’s edge. Also known as Hangingstone Rocks, the site is made up by two large formations which offer unrivalled views over the region’s beautiful countryside.
According to ancient legend, the Cow (the larger rock) and its calf were separated when a giant called Rombald stamped on the rock as he stormed his way across the moorland in pursuit of his wife.
Another interesting site is the Swastika Stone. Situated to the north of the moor, the stone has a curved carving which is believed to date from either the Bronze or Iron Ages.
On warm days you may want to cool off by taking a dip at Ilkley Pool and Lido. This is one of the few public outdoor swimming pools left in the UK and it still retains the Art Deco stylings of its 1930s heyday.
It is open only during the summer months and provides a place where visitors can relax on a sun lounger while topping up their tan or complete a few lengths in the pool. The site also has a putting green, picnic area and tennis courts as well as an indoor pool for those days when the weather is not so good.
After a long day exploring the moors around Ilkley or the Yorkshire Dales you’ll probably have quite an appetite and the town is home to a number of top class eateries. If you have a sweet tooth and want to enjoy a relaxed daytime setting then you may want to consider Betty’s Café Tea Rooms where you can enjoy a fine selection of teas as well as some of the best cakes and confectionaries available.
If it is fine dining that you seek then the Box Tree Restaurant is highly recommended. Boasting a Michelin star, the eatery is the place where celebrity chef Marco Pierre White cut his culinary teeth.
Transport links in Ilkley are excellent. The town has a central train station as well as a smaller stop at Ben Rhydding which connects to the large cities of Bradford and Leeds.
Next to Ilkley Train Station is the town’s bus station, where you will find regular services to Skipton, Keighley, York, Otley and Harrogate. Car users can reach the town by travelling along the A65, while those jetting in from overseas will find that Leeds Bradford Airport is only nine miles away