Piece Hall Halifax
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The Ultimate Guide to West Yorkshire: Moorlands, Museums, and Markets
West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire is a region of dramatic contrasts. One moment you are standing on a windswept moor that looks exactly as it did in the 1800s, and the next, you’re in a thriving city centre surrounded by world-class art. I’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the very best of the region.
1. Haworth & Brontë Country
Step into the world of Wuthering Heights. Haworth is a steep, cobbled village that served as the home of the Brontë sisters. It’s atmospheric, historic, and undeniably romantic. In 2026, Haworth is experiencing a real resurgence right now — thanks to the new 2026 Wuthering Heights film, which has sparked a fresh wave of Brontë‑mania across the village. Why not stop nearby for a couple of days so you can soak in all the atmosphere of the area. There are various types of accommodation available. Whilst in the area, why not travel on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Worth Railway. There is a station at Haworth where you can get on and off the train. The line was used in the film The Railway Children.
My Own Expert Tip:
Most tourists stick to the Main Street. For a quieter experience, walk up to Penistone Hill at sunset—the views over the moors are incredible and much more "Cathy and Heathcliff" than the gift shops.
Where to Stay: Haworth has some stunning boutique guesthouses.
I would suggest it is advisable to pre book your ticket for the train, especially during school holidays.
Check Latest Hotel Prices in Haworth ( links coming soon).
Finding Accommodation in the Bronte Country
The Brontë Country area of Yorkshire is primarily centred on Haworth (where the sisters lived) and Thornton (where they were born), offer a variety of historical and atmospheric stays
Hotels & Historic Inns
These options often feature on-site restaurants and bars with a traditional Yorkshire feel.
The Old White Lion Hotel (Haworth): A 4-star traditional coaching inn located at the top of the famous cobbled Main Street, right near the Brontë Parsonage.
The Fleece Inn (Haworth): Known for its award-winning bar and traditional flagstone flooring; it offers a classic "gastro-inn" experience.
Black Bull Inn (Haworth): A historic pub famous for being the local haunt of Branwell Brontë.
Steeton Hall Hotel & Restaurant (Steeton): Located just a short drive from Haworth, this is a more formal hotel setting in a grand period building.
Guest Houses & B&Bs
These provide a more personal touch, often with highly-rated breakfasts and hosts who know the local trails.
Weavers Guesthouse (Haworth): Consistently one of the highest-rated properties in the area, known for its "shabby chic" interior and thoughtful amenities.
Rosebud Cottage Guest House (Haworth): A traditional guest house located in a historic building with views of the quiet streets of Haworth.
The Apothecary Guest House (Haworth): Centrally located on the Main Street, offering 3-star accommodation in a charming period property.
The Old Registry (Haworth): A quirky, romantic guest house known for its uniquely themed rooms and central location.
Leeming Wells (Oxenhope): Situated just outside Haworth, this guest house features an indoor swimming pool and dramatic views of the surrounding moors.
Cottages & Holiday Homes
Ideal for longer stays or if you prefer a self-catering "home away from home" experience.
Bronte Railway Cottage (Haworth): A popular choice for its historical charm and proximity to the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.
Bijou Cottage (Haworth/Ponden): A cozy retreat featuring a wood-burning stove and hot tub, situated near Ponden Hall.
Bronte Nook (Haworth): A family-friendly two-bedroom holiday home located within walking distance of the main village attractions.
Bronte Stables (Thornton): A character property in the village where the sisters were born, featuring a walled garden and period features.
Travel Back in Time: Fairy Cottage (Haworth): An "experience" property located directly on the cobbles, designed to feel like stepping into a 19th-century home.
Find places to stay in Bronte Country of Yorkshire (affiliate links coming soon).
Pro Tip: If you are visiting specifically for Brontë history, I would try to stay in Haworth for the Parsonage and the moors, or Thornton to see their birthplace. Many of these properties are small and historic, so they often have steep stairs—it's worth checking the specific accessibility details when finding accommodation.
2. The Piece Hall, Halifax
This is arguably the most beautiful building in the North of England. A massive Georgian cloth hall with a central courtyard that feels like an Italian piazza, now filled with independent shops and bars. I love visiting the Piece Hall. I have seen it change over the years. It now boasts large scale events within the courtyard area.
Expert Tip: Visit Blondin's Diner and Desserts is a popular, dog-friendly American-style Diner and dessert cafe located inside the historic Piece Hall. Afterwards, if you are not too full, head to the top gallery for the best photo of the architecture.
Things to do: Many visitors combine this with a trip to Shibden Hall (the home of Anne Lister)
3. Saltaire UNESCO World Heritage Site
A Victorian "model village" built by Sir Titus Salt. The centre point is Salts Mill, a giant textile mill turned into an art gallery and shopping hub. The village itself is very interesting. Buy a village trails book and enjoy the history and what Titus did for the area and its residents.
Expert Tip: Don't miss the David Hockney collection inside the mill (it’s free!), but make sure to walk through Roberts Park afterward to see the beautiful promenade by the river.
I absolutely love going to Salts Mill. Make sure you eat at Salts Diner in the mill. It can can very busy at times and sometimes there are long queues. What we do is when we arrive at the mills we go to the Diner, make a reservation for about an hour later, then go and and see the art exhibitions, antique centre and return for the chosen time. We often return to exhibitions after our meal.
Travel Info: Saltaire is just a 15-minute train ride from Leeds, making it a perfect day trip.
4. Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP)
Set in 500 acres of rolling parkland, this is art on a massive scale. You can walk for miles seeing works by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth integrated into the woods and fields.
Expert Tip: Wear sturdy walking boots! Even in summer, the fields can be muddy, and you’ll want to reach the further
corners of the park where the "hidden" sculptures are tucked away.
Getting There: It’s easiest to reach by car. Getting there by bus is difficult. Why not hire a car for the day. It will be worth it to see art and installations from famous artists. They do have special exhibitions from time to time .
5. Leeds: The "Brooklyn of the North"
Leeds is the region's cultural engine. It’s famous for its Victorian shopping arcades and a food scene that rivals London.
My Expert Tip: For a unique lunch, head to Kirkgate Market (one of the largest indoor markets in Europe). Look for the "Market Kitchen" section for incredible street food.
Must See: The Royal Armouries Museum is free to enter and houses a world-renowned collection of arms and armor.
Find places to stay in Leeds (affiliate links coming soon).
Planning Your West Yorkshire Trip
Best Time to Visit: May to September for hiking; November/December for the famous Victorian Christmas markets in Haworth.
Getting Around: The train network between Leeds, Bradford, and Halifax is excellent. For the moors, I recommend hiring a car.
Pro Tip: Pack a raincoat! Even in the height of summer, the weather on the Yorkshire moors can change in minutes.
Find suitable transport for your trip (links coming soon).
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