West Yorkshire is a diverse and vibrant county, with something to offer for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or modern amenities. West Yorkshire embodies the best of Britain’s glorious past and its cosmopolitan present, from the hustle and bustle of Leeds City Centre to quaint rural villages, West Yorkshire has a lot to offer. Though it is a largely metropolitan county, the moorland and valleys outside the larger cities are dotted with old mill towns and villages, which are reminders of the county’s historical association with the textile industry with many former textile mills and other industrial buildings still standing today.
With a population of over 2 million people, West Yorkshire is known for its diverse culture and therefore its delicious, varied cuisine, including traditional pies, curries, and fish and chips. The county is home to a number of cultural festivals and events, including the Leeds Festival, the Ilkley Literature Festival, and the Holmfirth Folk Festival. West Yorkshire has also been a canvas for literary and artistic creativity for centuries, inspiring tales and artworks that have traversed time. The Bronte sisters, famous authors of classic novels such as “Wuthering Heights” and “Jane Eyre”, were born in West Yorkshire and lived there for much of their lives. The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, a heritage railway line that runs through West Yorkshire, was also featured in the classic film “The Railway Children”.
Today, West Yorkshire is not industrial heartland, but a picturesque county where anyone from young professionals looking for alternatives to London and families or pensioners might settle. If you’re thinking of settling in this area read on for our selection of some of the best places to live in West Yorkshire.
Wakefield
Wakefield is one of West Yorkshire’s major cities famous for its cathedral, the Hepworth Wakefield art gallery, its annual Rhubarb Festival and its role in the War of the Roses.
Wakefield is a pivotal cultural hub in the region, with a fascinating industrial heritage. Situated on the banks of the River Calder, it has been occupied since prehistoric times. In the 15th century, the city’s substantial coal reserves were discovered, which contributed immensely to the region’s economy. By the 18th century, Wakefield was prospering as an exporter of textiles, coal, and corn. It gained cathedral status in the 19th century owing to the presence of the medieval Wakefield Cathedral, which boasts Yorkshire’s tallest spire.
One of the things that people love about Wakefield is its abundance of green spaces, including Pugneys Country Park, Sandal Castle, Newmillerdam and Anglers Country Park. These beautiful parks offer residents the opportunity to soak up nature, relax and participate in a number of outdoor sports. The largest of these parks and one of Wakefield’s biggest attractions is Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Situated 7 miles outside of Wakefield centre, the park is an open-air gallery covering 500 acres of beautiful landscape with contemporary sculpture. The sculpture park hosts various exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.
Wakefield also offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options at Trinity Walk Shopping Centre, with a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a number of theatres and cultural venues across the city.
Leeds
The largest city in West Yorkshire, Leeds is known for its vibrant cultural scene, shopping, and universities. As the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, Leeds stands as a beacon of diversity and innovation, boasting a plethora of attractions for everyone. Located on the River Aire, Leeds was initially a vivacious market town. During the industrial revolution, it evolved into a factory town, and Leeds became a major centre for the iron, flax, wool, and printing industries, besides a vibrant engineering and shopping centre. By the 19th century, it was a modern city with a booming economy, a robust housing market, and a large population. Today, Leeds is known for its world-class university, its beautiful Victorian-era architecture, and its eclectic job landscape.
One of the main reasons people choose to live in Leeds is due to the city's strong economy and job opportunities. Leeds is home to a number of major businesses and industries, making it an attractive location for professionals and entrepreneurs. With its flourishing commerce, cosmopolitanism, and lively social scene, Leeds was named the best place to live in northeast England by The Sunday Times.
Another reason people choose to live in Leeds is the city's cultural heritage and vibrant art scenes. Leeds has a diverse range of museums, galleries, and theatres, as well as a thriving music and nightlife scene, offering something for everyone. Leeds is the only city outside London to boast both a local Opera Company and a Ballet Company. There are four major theatres, the impressive First Direct Area and not to mention a wealth of other smaller, independent venues too. The city also boasts a number of exciting restaurants, ranging from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Leeds has some beautiful parks too such as Roundhay Park, Temple Newsam and Golden Acre Park. Roundhay Park’s 700 acres offer formal lakesides, wilder woodland, sports pitches, and a tropical plant conservatory. Golden Acre Park north of the city combines specimen gardens with signposted birdwatching trails. Smaller parks, like Meanwood, have play areas and meadows, while Temple Newsam adds a historic mansion and rare breeds farm into its grounds.
Discover our brand-new development of 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom homes at Bridgewood Green. Situated on Cairney Close Collingham a beautiful town, perfectly located just south of Wetherby. This picturesque village hosts a variety of amenities creating a great community within the town.
Bradford
Bradford is located in the Pennine Hill area of West Yorkshire, part of the beautiful Peak District. As well as being the 5th biggest city in the UK by population size and the world’s first UNESCO City of Film, it also boasts of being the Curry Capital of Britain for 5 years in a row. With quick accessible links to the M1, M62 and A1 (M) motorways along with a local train station, Bradford is an eclectic up and coming city.
Bradford is renowned for its rich industrial heritage, cultural diversity, and architectural landmarks like the Alhambra Theatre and Bradford City Hall. Over the years the theatre has been host to many big stage and screen names including Laurel & Hardy, Peter Sellers, George Formby, and more. In 1964, the city bought the theatre and today is regarded as one of the finest theatres in England. The city is also home to the oldest concert hall. In fact, it's the third oldest on the entire continent. St. George’s Hall was opened back in 1853 and it’s still going strong today.
Leeds Bradford Airport is one of the UK’s fastest growing airports. It is 6 miles from Bradford City Centre and generates substantial economic benefits by ensuring that the city remains connected to the world. Manchester Airport is also within a 1 hour reach by road or rail.
Menston
A picturesque village known for its community spirit, beautiful countryside, and historical buildings, Menston is a delightful blend of rural tranquillity and convenient accessibility, being just a short distance from the bustling cities of Leeds and Bradford. This quiet village offers a unique experience with its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and a strong sense of community. From its beautiful stone-built houses to its well-preserved Victorian architecture, Menston is a place that effortlessly combines the old with the new.
Menston offers a good range of amenities. The village centre boasts a selection of independent shops, a post office, library and there is wonderful local produce to be found at the farm shops in the area. Neighbouring Guiseley has two retail parks, including big name stores and a pleasing selection of independent stores too. For more extensive shopping options, the market towns of Ilkley and Otley are just a short drive away.
Discover our stunning developments Moordale Gardens for your perfect home in the highly desirable area of Menston. A short train ride away from Leeds and Bradford, Menston offers peaceful living for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle while still having easy access to the city.
Brighouse
Situated on the River Calder, Brighouse is a vibrant market town with a rich history and heritage. A town well loved by the locals and visitors from further afield, Brighouse is home to a range of independent shops and quality restaurants serving up everything from familiar brands to local flavours. And whilst this is a much-loved smaller town, its position between the city of Bradford and the larger towns of Huddersfield and Halifax give residents the best of both worlds.
Discover our stunning development at Cromwell Gardens, in the village of Rastrick, a short distance away from Brighouse town centre. Living in Rastrick you’ll have the best of both worlds. With great motorway links on your doorstep and a range of transport services, you'll be well connected to surrounding towns and cities whilst having all the benefits of village life. Rastrick is well suited for families, with a selection of great schools.
From quaint villages to charming towns and bustling cities, the county of West Yorkshire delivers an exceptional quality of life on all fronts. From Wakefield to Wetherby, these are some of the best places to live in West Yorkshire. Here at Space Homes we pride ourselves on building stunning homes in the most sought after locations so why not take a look at our current developments and see which area of West Yorkshire you could be calling home.