Itinerary Planner

Gourmet Experience in the Charming Town of Ilkley

Discover the charming spa town of Ilkley in Lower Wharfedale, located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales.  Enjoy the varied culinary offer and immerse yourself in the local food scene. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty of Ilkley Moor, this food experience will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and offer a wide variety of options to suit all tastes.

STAY & EXPLORE

Plan your visit to this charming town.  There are many accommodation options in Ilkley and Wharfedale. Hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs offer a more traditional experience, while holiday lodges and serviced apartments are ideal for those seeking independence.

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FOODIE INSPIRATION

MORNING:
Travelling by train is highly recommended when visiting Ilkley.  Upon arrival, be sure to explore the charming cafés nearby, which offer a delicious range of scrumptious breakfast options such as tempting muesli, freshly baked goods, and a hot cup of coffee to satisfy your taste buds.
Once you've satisfied your hunger, you're ready for an exciting gourmet shopping experience.  The town is known for its great independent shops, including the Ilkley Real Food Market which takes place on the first Sunday of every month.  You will find a variety of regional products there.  If you need necessities or tasty snacks, be sure to visit the Moss & Moor Food Hall, which sells the best produce from local Yorkshire producers.  Another place not to miss is Lishman's of Ilkley, a well-known butcher that has won numerous awards for the quality of its products.
AFTERNOON:
If you're looking for a fun food adventure in Ilkley, there are plenty of options to choose from.  For a truly memorable outing, indulge in a sophisticated afternoon tea experience at the charming Betty's Café Tea Rooms nestled in the idyllic setting of The Grove.  If you have a sweet tooth, there are many opportunities for delicious coffee and cake.  For a historical ambiance, The Flying Duck is the oldest pub in town, dating back to the 1600s.  For a more modern vibe, Banyan is a trendy bar and kitchen that serves tasty food and drinks all day. The Ticket Office even offers cocktail masterclasses.  And for beer lovers, Friends of Ham is a highly regarded craft beer bar where you can enjoy charcuterie with local ales.

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Food & Drink Event Highlights

• Ilkley Beer Festival in February at the King’s Hall & Winter Garden
• Ilkley Brewery Social Events
• Ilkley Food & Drink Festival in June at East Holmes Field
• Real Food Ilkley at The Grove, 1st Sunday of Every Month

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EVENING:
Ilkley offers a variety of excellent dining options for those seeking a cozy and enjoyable evening out.  One such place is Piccolino’s, conveniently located on Brook Street.  This restaurant features an open kitchen, a cocktail bar, and a delightful outside terrace that boasts a fully retractable roof, ensuring a pleasant dining experience all year round. Another great choice is The Box Tree, a renowned and award-winning establishment.  What sets this restaurant apart is its ever-changing menu, which is carefully curated based on the season, offering guests a fusion of contemporary efficiency and exquisite flavours.  Sachi's Restaurant, on the other hand, provides a unique fine dining Indian experience.  Situated at Moors Shopping Centre, this restaurant combines French cooking techniques with classic Indian recipes, creating a culinary journey like no other.  Additionally, Ilkley is home to many fantastic independent restaurants worth exploring, such as Host, The Olive Branch, Emporio Italia, Quinta, and J Reserve.  These establishments offer a range of delicious options that are sure to satisfy any food lover. 
If you are in the mood for a last drink of the night, you should check out The Gin Lounge.  This bar has a vintage vibe and offers an extensive variety of gin, as well as rum for those who prefer it.  Another option is Martinez Ilkley Cellar Bar, which not only offers casual drinks but also hosts special events like Wine & Cheese Night.  For craft beer enthusiasts, Fuggle and Goldings Tap House is a must-visit.  This small, family-owned establishment is passionate about providing their customers with the best local brews, both on tap and in bottles.