Halifax

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Halifax, West Yorkshire

Halifax, West Yorkshire is going through a tourist boom at the moment and the main reason is the recent success of the TV dramas - Gentleman Jack and Happy Valley. These have led to many large crowds visiting Shibden Hall, the Piece Hall, Sowerby Bridge and other local landmarks. Long may it continue.

Gentleman Jack

Hot on the heels of the success of Gentleman Jack is 'Gallows Pole' - The story of the Cragg Vale Coiners

Halifax, as an attraction, continues. Now we have Disney's 'Marvel' series in town at the Piece Hall. This includes some top actors and actresses with Samuel L. Jackson the pick of the crop.

We have put together a list of local sights that are a must for any tourist to see if they were to visit town.

1. Shibden Hall and Shibden Park

On the occasions when we get good weather or snow for sledging, Shibden has to be the place to be. Halifax is blessed to have had this park where many happy memories exist for the past and present locals. I know I have some.

This park has plenty of activities including a boating lake, pitch and putt golf, miniature railway ride, play area, café and facilities centre and some wonderful scenic gardens.

Read the story of Anne Lister (former owner)

There is also the famous 600yr old Shibden Hall and folk museum. Any information you need can be found here.

2. Piece Hall - (a history link)

The Piece Hall - has recently undergone a large site improvement scheme incorporating the library, Industrial museum and Square Chapel. The main grounds are now a major venue for many frequent outdoor activities and events attracting crowds both local and international.

The Piece Hall complex also includes

Square Chapel - Square Chapel Arts Centre, bringing you the best in film, theatre, live music, comedy, family shows, workshops and more.

Industrial Museum - A complete collection of industrial machinery and artifacts covering four floors

Halifax Library - Another part of the Piece Hall package

Orangebox - a state-of-the-art centre for young people with facilities

3. Bankfield Museum

A Museum since 1887, Bankfield tells the story of Halifax and Calderdale, using its rich and diverse collections.

Set in the attractive surroundings of Akroyd Park, at the centre of Akroydon model village conservation area, this Victorian mansion was the home of local mill owner, philanthropist and MP, Colonel Edward Akroyd.

Bankfield Museum's displays cover local history, costume, art, toys, military history, jewellery and textiles from around the world. We also host temporary exhibitions including costume, embroidery, quilting, textile art, paintings and photography.

4. Hebden Bridge and Hardcastle Crags

Hebden-Bridge has to be the most picturesque village in Halifax. Some of the scenery here, in the middle of the Pennines, is truly breath-taking. For natural beauty this is amongst the best in the whole country. If you have never been, then its time to get your boots on and don't forget your camera. I can confidently say that you will be amazed by its beauty any time of the year.

5. Heptonstall

Heptonstall is the quaintest of villages situated above Hebden Bridge above the calder valley.

This is an intriguing village in so many ways. Its historical buildings and facts would keep any historian here for an age. and the views and surrounding natural beauty of Hardcastle Crags are a pleasure to experience any time of year.

6. Sowerby Bridge

Sowerby-Bridge is a busy market town in the upper calder valley awash with many, good quality eateries and drinking establishments. Canal cruises or walks are a delight, especially in summer months.

7. Ogden Water

Ogden Water has been a regular tourist spot for relaxing or a pleasant walk with scenery to savour for many years.

Circular walks are very popular and gentle on the pocket. There are three excellent circular walks as well as other regular activities. I sometimes like a lap. Its relaxing, fresh and its my version of a marathon nowadays.

For some more great Halifax walks you should try this link

8. Wainhouse Tower

Wainhouse-Tower is a folly in the parish of King Cross, on the south west side of Halifax. At 275 feet (84 m), it is the tallest structure in Calderdale and the tallest folly in the world, and was erected in the four years between 1871 and 1875. The main shaft is octagonal in shape and it has a square base and 403 steps leading to the first of two viewing platforms. The tower is open to the public during bank holidays, and is a Grade II* listed building.

9. Manor Heath and Jungle Experience

Jungle Experience is a tropical world full of plants and animals from all over the world. Whilst Savile Park consists of a mass of playing fields with avenues of trees around the outskirts.

10. Eureka

Eureka has to be the countrys' best interactive museum for kids. A great day out and the added bonus of kids learning while they play.

Some other places of interest include:-

The gibbet, Halifax Minster, Dean Clough galleries, Civic Theatre, Town centre architecture, The Shay football stadium, walks along the River Calder and many other scenic and historic walks.

Here are some links for other nearby attractions well worth visiting.

http://www.bronte-country.com/
http://www.bronte-country.com/thornton.html

http://www.haworth-village.co.uk/
http://www.city-of-bradford.com/

Local Bars and Restaurants

Halifax Shopping

Halifax could never be regarded as a shopping mecca however the likes of Westgate and Woolshops have been pleasantly modernised whilst the town centre is blessed with some amazing architecture.

Bars and Nightlife

Victoria Theatre - the towns major theatre event attraction.
Victoria Theatre website

Halifax Minster

Halifax Minster website

Dean Clough Mills- These mills were once the home of a thriving carpet industry but are now many seperate businesses spread throughout the buildings.

Dean Clough website