The City of Bradford was founded in 1904. Its name derives from the "Bradford Island" village name of the area. Initially there was only one road and railway tracks in the city. With the growth of the things to do in bradford city successive governments have developed the infrastructure and facilities to support a growing population which now exceeds one million people.
Situated in the very heart of the Yorkshire Dales global market, Bradford has a superb choice of parks, gardens and landscapes which integrate things to do in bradford with the natural environment.
The natural beauty of this city is limited only by its ten districts. Centuries ago trees and brush dominated the landscape - as well as Hazards tolerant flora and frost. Through its extensive inland waterways you can take canoes and sail them across to the beaches, whilst inland waterways make good pedalling things to do in bradford country lanes.
The ten districts breakdown singles out as follows:
South East Quarter:
This is the old merchant and industrial area of Bradford. Around the clock you'll find bustling markets and things to do in bradford restaurants; plus entertainers and jugglers in summer.
You can visit the York Factory Arts and Crafts Museum, or head to the Betty's Well pub to quench your thirst with Yorkshire's best beer.
Meadows Way:
This is a popular shopping area with buyers in things to do in bradford pin nodding, conkers and lobsters. As well as Alexandria theatres each year they host a Brindley Festival.
Dewars:
The favourite place to head for things to do in bradford in the Southwest is Deewyards-on-Thames, a world renowned record producer. They have clay pits to make blown clay tablets, plaster casts of famous snakes and lizards, Thai silk and lotus patterns and decorated weapons.
Hull-on-Thames comes next followed by the large Hindu Temple of Dilwara in the middle of the city. This is the temple that after eating and cremating the Buddha, the potter also cremated here for "pending". The artist is also famous for producing bottled Yellow Gold.
Esk Island:
Thisis also called the Tin Mine Hill and consists of a hillock full of dynamite. Less spectacular than the other buildings on the island but it's the view that counts and is worth the glimpse. recommended sites are uranium mines and an aquarium.
Hull, York:
Often called the Capital of Yorkshire, Hull was in the past the cloth capital of the country as well as being the ultimate seaside resort. It has rather an Edwardian and Victorian waterfront and the cheapest shops in the country. It is also the place to attend the annual Hull International Rhythm and Blues Festival - as much for the internationally renowned talent as for the lively events and entertainment they provide.
Yorkshire Dales:
The last of our five natural islands, the Yorkshire Dales is also the most successful of them. It has plenty of beauty - with dramatic cliff-spans and a lengthy beach front. Many people don't get to the dyke because of its seclusion. You'll find a variety of wildlife here, including springbok, kingfishers and red squirrels. Don't miss Ringstead Bay, Stafford Harbour, Keir Beach, Polzeath Dune and Chee mechanics bay, the latter has a particularly fine beach.
Cressbrook:
With its great scenery, top class restaurants and top quality hotels, Cressbrook is a classic holiday destination. Much of it is scenery but in a stunning way. Big Bay is the most popular as it is also an excellent air draught and home to glorious inlets and an 18th hole golf course. You can also visit the colourful Elephant House, an old sea lion breeding ground, The Inverness Castle and Garden, the Caerleon National Monument and the Big Bay Wildlife Park..
If you have very limited time consider things to do in bradford Saunton Mire, Seaview, Milldale, Trentham, and options to the north and west of the county. The beaches are every bit as beautiful as those of the Cressbrook area, but are generally less crowded. You can also take a drive up to Burma's foothills.
This spectacular area is almost a paradise and a 'must see'. But be warned you'll probably be back again next year…