We pave the way for Bradford 2025 by celebrating some of Bradford’s best cultural and foodie hotspots
Our vibrant home city of Bradford is poised to take centre stage as the prestigious City of Culture 2025 approaches. Bursting with rich heritage, diverse communities and an array of cultural and foodie hotspots, Bradford will have the opportunity to showcase its unique blend of creativity and artistic expression. To pave the way, here are just some of the cultural gems that make Bradford an exceptional city:
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery
https://bradfordmuseums.org/cartwright-hall-art-gallery/
Located within the scenic grounds of Lister Park, Cartwright Hall Art Gallery is a cultural haven that showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and historical art. From local and emerging artists to international exhibitions, the gallery offers a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
Bradford Theatres
https://www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/
An architectural icon, the Alhambra Theatre brings world-class performances to the heart of Bradford. This historic venue boasts stunning Edwardian grandeur and hosts a diverse array of theatrical productions, ranging from Broadway musicals and panto to Shakespearean classics.
Opened in 1853, St George’s Hall is situated in the heart of Bradford city centre. A stunning Victorian concert hall; audiences are treated to a wide variety of events, from top comedians to wonderful family shows, fascinating talks and great music concerts. The venue also hosts a classical music season welcoming world renowned orchestras, including The Hallé to the stage.
Bradford Industrial Museum
https://bradfordmuseums.org/bradford-industrial-museum/
Discover the industrial heritage of Bradford at the Bradford Industrial Museum, a fantastic space that preserves the city’s rich history. Housed within the beautifully restored Moorside Mills, the museum offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past. From steam engines and textile machinery to exhibitions on printing and weaving, visitors can explore the city’s journey of innovation and progress and understand more about the hardworking communities that shaped Bradford’s diverse identity.
Little Germany
https://www.visitbradford.com/things-to-do/little-germany-p1622811
Step into the past with a visit to Little Germany, a district that transports visitors back in time with its stunning Victorian architecture. Known for its intricately designed buildings, many of which were once home to textile merchants, this area showcases the city’s historical significance as a hub of the textile industry. Little Germany’s cobbled streets are now an increasingly popular TV and movie location. Most recently, it played host to actors Oprah Winfrey and Kerry Washington for the filming of Six Triple Eight, a drama set during the height of the Second World War, telling the story of the Second World War’s only all-black, all-female unit.
Curry Triangle
Bradford has earned the well-deserved title of Curry Capital of Britain thanks to its fantastic selection of Indian and Pakistani restaurants. The city’s vibrant Curry Triangle, located around Leeds Road and Little Horton Lane, boasts a plethora of authentic curry houses. From traditional curries to mouth-watering kebabs and biryanis, you’ll find a wealth of spicy options. Zouk Tea Bar & Grill (https://zoukteabar.co.uk), Aagrah (https://www.aagrah.com), and Akbar’s (https://akbars.co.uk/) are just a few of the great restaurants that showcase Bradford’s curry prowess.
Bradford markets
https://www.bradfordmarkets.com
The historic Bradford markets are a paradise for food enthusiasts. The markets include an abundance of stalls offering a diverse range of culinary delights, from local produce and artisanal cheeses to international street food and freshly prepared dishes. Darley Street Market is set to open in 2023; a state of the art venue with food and drink, music, arts, culture and entertainment in the market’s square.
Salts Mill
A place for art, dining and shopping, Salts Mill is a stunning historic building first opened in 1853 as the centrepiece of Sir Titus Salt’s utopian vision of Saltaire. He built the adjoining model village to house his workers. The mill now houses a huge collection of works by the artist David Hockney, an array of independent retail shops and bustling restaurants and cafes. In 2001, Saltaire became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is now home to Sovereign’s head office!
Whether you’re looking for cultural enrichment, a fantastic trip to the theatre or a fiery curry, Bradford is well worth a visit.