Winter Wonders: Things to Do in Sparkling Bradford

As winter arrives, Sparkling Bradford transforms into a festive wonderland with pantomimes, delicious foodie experiences, wonderful craft fairs, and unique shopping—come find your festive inspiration!

EVENTS

This winter, Sparkling Bradford is the place to be, with a host of festive events that promise fun and magic for everyone this winter.

• Celebrate a sparkling Christmas with Billy Pearce in Pinocchio at the Alhambra Theatre! Packed with laughter, lively characters, and interactive fun, it’s the perfect festive outing for the whole family.
• Step into the festive magic of the Saltaire Living Advent Calendar, nestled in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage village. Every day in December, a new sparkling surprise awaits as you explore each beautifully decorated window!
• Haworth, famous for its literary history, sparkles with festive events every weekend before Christmas, featuring markets, workshops, live entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Celebrate Christmas at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway! Hop aboard the Festive Flyer for a steam journey to a festive destination, enjoy a classic *A Christmas Carol* performance, or join the Mince Pie Specials to shake off the post-Christmas blues. 
• Experience the magic of Christmas with Mrs. Claus in the Great Hall at NT East Riddlesden Hall in Keighley! Enjoy festive storytelling, sparkling decorations, and crafts for an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for the whole family.
• Cliffe Castle Museum in Keighley sparkles into a festive wonderland this season! Wander through beautifully decorated rooms, enjoy fun holiday activities, try some festive crafts, and don’t miss the chance to visit Santa.
• If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the Real Food Ilkley Christmas Market on The Grove! Discover a dazzling array of festive treats, handmade gifts, and seasonal delights from local producers—perfect for indulgence or gift-giving.
• This Christmas, add some sparkle to your season at Pictureville! Enjoy a heartwarming experience with cosy screenings of classics like *It’s a Wonderful Life* and *The Muppet Christmas Carol*, perfect with friends and family.

SHOP

Bradford District sparkles with festive shopping, perfect for finding unique gifts! Support local businesses and enjoy the magic of the season.

• Stroll down Haworth’s sparkling Main Street this Christmas, enjoying nostalgic treats at Mrs. Beighton’s Sweet Shop, discovering treasures at The Cabinet of Curiosities, browsing books at Wave of Nostalgia, and exploring independent shops, all while soaking in the festive magic of this picturesque village.
• Make your December extra special by visiting The Old School Room in Haworth every weekend for sparkling craft fairs! Discover unique handmade gifts and festive decorations and support local artisans while taking home a piece of Haworth’s creative magic.
• Ilkley is a Christmas shopping paradise, sparkling with its tempting independent shops offering everything from stylish gifts at Raymond Town Menswear and fashionable finds at Fig & Willow to unique home décor at Nora’s Interiors & Gifts Shop. Plus, high street favourites like Oliver Bonas, White Stuff, and Jigsaw add a touch of chic for every taste.
• Christmas shopping at Salts Mill is a festive treat, with sparkling trees and unique gifts. Book lovers will love the Book and Poster Shop, while The Home offers seasonal décor. Find vintage treasures at Carlton Antiques, outdoor gear at Trek & Trail, and unique handcrafted gifts at RadStudios and Giddy Arts in the village—making Saltaire the ultimate winter destination.
• The iconic Wool Exchange in Bradford sparkles with charm, housing a Waterstones bookshop with a stunning interior and a brilliant selection of books perfect for gifting. This historic gem not only offers literary treasures but also offers a cosy haven at Café W, where you can unwind with a slice of cake and a comforting cup of tea, providing a peaceful escape from the Christmas rush.
• For a one-stop shopping experience, go to The Broadway Bradford, where high-street favourites like Accessorize, Goldsmiths, Superdry, and Schuh offer the perfect gifts. While you're in the city, join the Nutcracker Trail —explore, solve the anagram, and you could win a £100 Bradford City Centre Gift Card, brought to you by the Bradford BID.
• Immerse yourself in the sparkling festive atmosphere at Bradford Markets in Shipley, Bradford, and Keighley! From fresh produce to festive treats, you’ll find everything you need to make your feast both delicious and merry. Be sure to sample local delicacies and discover gourmet gifts that are perfect for the season.

DINE

Bradford District sparkles this winter with a range of dining options perfect for the festive season. From classic Christmas feasts to unique culinary delights, there's something to suit every taste.

• Pubs sparkle with festive cheer, offering seasonal menus made with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a hearty roast with all the trimmings or sip on warming mulled wine in a cosy atmosphere. Visit The Hawthorn in Haworth, an award-winning Georgian gastropub, or the newly revamped Old White Horse Brasserie in Bingley. For comfort and style, don’t miss The Crescent Inn in Ilkley, featuring contemporary interiors and a roaring open fire.
• Treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea at Bradford’s grand hotels or cafés, like the Midland Hotel in Bradford, Craiglands Hotel in Ilkley, or Hollins Hall Hotel in Baildon for a Grinch-inspired twist. Enjoy seasonal sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and Christmas pastries—perfect for celebrating the season, with or without a glass of sparkle.
• Spice up your season with a trip to Bradford, home to some of the UK’s finest curry houses. Warm up with bold, flavourful dishes that will tantalise your taste buds—whether you’re dining at Mylahore, the British Asian-inspired gem, Aagrah Shipley’s A La Carte & Grill, or the International flagship restaurant at Sticker Lane. Each stop promises a delicious experience that’s bound to lift your winter spirits!
• Looking for a festive night out? Bradford District hotels have you covered with themed dinners that are sure to impress! Enjoy a fun 70s, 80s, and 90s hits night at The Craiglands in Ilkley, disco, and a delicious festive meal. Or join the Sparkling Party Nights at the Mercure Bradford Bankfield Hotel in Bingley for a mouthwatering three-course feast filled with festive flavours. With a DJ spinning the tunes, you’ll be dancing the night away!
• Book your Festive Dining experience at the Manor House in Ilkley, where you can indulge in exquisite dishes crafted by talented chefs. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, it’s the perfect choice for foodies looking to savour something truly special and sparkling this season.
• Get into the festive spirit with fun, family-friendly foodie events that sparkle with festive cheer!! Enjoy a breakfast with Santa at The Great Victoria Hotel, The Broadway Bradford, and Bradford Bulls, or a Santa Sunday lunch at Cedar Court Hotel. Plus, discover more local events with Santa, guaranteeing a magical Christmas for the kids and delicious treats for everyone!

This winter, discover the magic of *Sparkling Bradford*! From festive events to unique shopping and tasty dining, it’s the perfect place to celebrate. Go to: www.visitbradford.com/christmas for more and make your season truly shine!