Things to Do in Bradford
I don’t think you would specifically go to Bradford for sightseeing, but like me, you might find yourself there for different reasons. For instance, some UK tours may choose Bradford for accommodation because it’s more affordable, making it a base for exploring the Yorkshire region. Or someone visiting Leeds might opt to stay here for the same reason. Additionally, it’s possible to visit for reasons like the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Program, as I did. That’s why, even though I wasn’t planning to write about Bradford, I changed my mind in case you happen to end up there.
Something about Bradford that I was completely unaware of and found quite surprising was its residents. When you go to the city center, you might feel like you’re in Pakistan rather than England, because the majority of the population is of Pakistani descent. Most English people tend to live in Leeds and prefer to come here for work or education.
Things to Do in Bradford Center
One of the main activities in Bradford is shopping. There are two medium-sized shopping malls with many stores ranging from Debenhams to Primark. I frequently used Broadway Bradford for both food and shopping, but Kirkgate, with its Primark and large Poundland, is the real place for bargains. However, there are almost no dining options in Kirkgate. Also, the shopping centers close early, and many places aren’t open on Sundays, so keep that in mind.
The main campus of the University of Bradford is quite green, and the student center with its cafes is also pretty good. Since it’s easy to enter universities in England, you can hang out on campus. Additionally, the university is very close to the city center, within walking distance.
At Bradford’s Centenary Square, as shown in the cover photo, you can see children practically bathing in the fountain. In the morning, the fountain sprays water, and by evening, enough water accumulates for the children to play in. It’s their favorite activity. There are also many restaurants and cafes around the square. The Magistrates’ Court, located here, is one of the few historic buildings in Bradford and one of the only central structures worth seeing and photographing.
Another place to visit opposite Centenary Square is the National Science and Media Museum. I personally think it’s much better than the Science Museum in London. It’s filled with fun and educational activities for both kids and adults. Like many museums in the UK, it’s free. Just a few buildings away is the Alhambra Theatre, where you can catch good musicals from time to time.
Lister Park is quite large but a bit far from the center. The University of Bradford’s School of Management is right next to the park, so during my visit to the faculty, I saw the park from a distance. It looked very green and peaceful, so if you get the chance, you might want to stop by.
Places to Visit Around Bradford
If you’re in Bradford, I highly recommend visiting Saltaire. After being in Bradford’s center, Saltaire feels like an oasis in the desert. It’s a typical English town, the kind where you’ll finally feel like you’ve arrived in the English countryside, with its beautiful houses. You can reach it by train, or since it’s not far, you can also take a taxi. We took a taxi and arrived in about 20 minutes, though Bradford taxi drivers can be a bit annoying with their lack of knowledge. In Saltaire, you can visit Salts Mill, which was once a textile factory but now hosts exhibitions. Saltaire was founded by Sir Titus Salt, who built this factory for the town’s residents to work in, back in 1853. A controlling manager, Titus made it mandatory for his employees to attend church on Sundays. Because of his controlling nature, there’s even a statue of him overlooking the town. Additionally, the streets of Saltaire are named after Sir Titus Salt’s children.
Roberts Park in Saltaire is both very well-maintained and quite large. It’s perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or having a picnic on the grass. Since it has waterways running through it, it’s especially scenic.
Another place you could visit near Bradford is Leeds, which locals say is much more developed. I didn’t get a chance to visit, but there are frequent train and bus services that make it easy to reach.
Where to Eat in Bradford
In Saltaire, you can eat at a café/restaurant called Don’t Tell Titus. I had fish and chips, which is actually a dish from the Yorkshire region. I think it’s one of the best places to eat. Their desserts are amazing too, so even if you don’t eat a full meal, make sure to order one of their chocolate desserts.
In Bradford’s center, due to the large Pakistani population, Middle Eastern cuisine dominates. In the shopping centers, you’ll find classic fast food options like Subway and KFC. Of course, Nando’s, which is everywhere, is also here.
Accommodation in Bradford
I stayed at the Great Victoria Hotel, which is located right across from the train station and is very central. The Great Victoria Hotel is a very elegant building that was once an old structure now being used as a hotel. It’s about a 5-minute walk to the square.
Another option, slightly more expensive but still central, is the Jurys Inn. It was also recommended by the staff at the University of Bradford.
