Ilkley and Wharfedale
Ilkley and Wharfedale runs along river Wharfe in West Yorkshire. It is an area of wild beauty, emphasised by high moors and running rivers. Throughout this area you will find some great walking routes, classy festivals, fabulous hotels and marvelous scenery.
Ilkley is well known to be the inspiration for the famous song On Ilkla Moor Baht’at (translation: “On Ilkley Moor without a hat”). The town itself is a stylish spa town with fabulous restaurants, including the Michelin starred restaurant the Box Tree. A great range of boutique shops selling a variety of specialist items can also be found in the high street.
Those who enjoy literature must visit in autumn when the renowned Ilkley Literature Festival takes place. The largest of its kind in the North of England, the festival features authors’ readings, discussions, and performances, attracting big names such as P.D.James, John Sergeant, Clive James and Louis Theroux.
Set amid the stunning scenery of Wharfedale, Ilkley is also the perfect base for mountain biking, rock climbing and walking. Ramble over Ilkley Moor to the imposing Cow and Calf rocks or if you’re feeling more energetic the 84 mile Dales Way begins in Ilkley!
Visitors basing themselves in the area will find they are at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and ideally placed for the numerous national museums in nearby Leeds and Bradford, as well as events and festivals across West and North Yorkshire.
Must see and do
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