Itinerary Planner

Unravel Bradford's Woolly Heritage

Bradford has a rich history intertwined with wool. To make the most of your short break, follow this wool-themed itinerary, which is sure to provide a unique and educational experience. With its fascinating museums and architecture, Bradford is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of wool and the city's industrial past.

STAY & EXPLORE

There are a variety of accommodation options to choose from when planning your visit to Bradford. If you prefer a more traditional experience, you can opt for hotels, guesthouses or B&Bs. However, if you prefer more independence, holiday lodges and serviced apartments are a good choice.

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WOOLLY INSPIRATION

MORNING:

First on the itinerary is a visit to the Bradford Industrial Museum.  This museum houses a range of artefacts from the wool industry, including tools, machinery and photographs.  Visitors can learn all about the history of the wool industry and explore the museum's exhibits, which tell the story of the industry's growth and development.

Afterwards, visit the city by bus and stroll the Bradford Heritage Trail, circling Little Germany, see the grand old woollen warehouses and explore the Wool Exchange.  It is an impressive building with an iconic bell tower built at the end of the 19th century.  The Wool Exchange was the centre of Bradford's woollen industry and is now a large Waterstones bookshop. On this self-guided tour, visitors can learn about the history of Bradford Wool and see its impressive architecture.

AFTERNOON:

Take the train to Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic village of Saltaire and its iconic Salts Mill is a must for anyone interested in the history of wool.  Saltaire was founded in the 19th century by Sir Titus Salt, a woollen manufacturer who had a vision of creating a utopian industrial village for his workers.  The Salts Mill was at the time the largest woollen mill in the world and was powered by the nearby River Aire.  The mill now houses a fantastic art gallery and shopping complex.

EVENING:

If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, and crafting, The Little Craft House in Saltaire is the ideal place for you. They offer workshops for beginners and experienced individuals to improve their skills. Additionally, they sell a range of supplies for creating stunning wool designs.

OPTIONAL:
You can also choose to go on an alpaca trek at Baildon or Tong which is a fantastic activity suitable for people of all ages. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you take a leisurely stroll through Bradford's picturesque countryside, accompanied by the serene presence of these graceful creatures.

This wool-themed itinerary of Bradford is sure to leave you with a greater appreciation of the city’s rich wool industry. With its impressive architecture, fascinating history, and modern-day attractions, Bradford is the perfect destination for any wool enthusiast.