Ilkley and Otley both offer an excellent day out set among some of the best views the Yorkshire Dales have to offer.
Once a renowned spa town, the picturesque town of Ilkley in the Wharfe Valley remains celebrated for its fresh air and beautiful countryside scenery but today is also a firm favourite for those seeking a day out spent visiting its many excellent restaurants and independent shops.
Ilkley rose to fame in the 19th century when thousands visited for fresh air, good food, and the lively social scene… so not much has changed! It boomed in the Victorian era, and the legacy of the age is the wonderful collection of private and municipal architecture.
The town is home to many independent shops and boutiques offering a plethora of items to treat yourself or a loved one, with high-end jewellery, home furnishings, and so much more to browse.
Well-known brands have also made a name for themselves in Ilkley such as Seasalt Cornwall which opened in April, bringing the signature coastal-inspired collections and commitment to sustainable craftsmanship to Brook Street. There’s also a quirky market every Tuesday and Saturday which sees stalls selling crafts, local produce, and tasty treats.
You’ll find many independent bars, cafés, and restaurants thriving in Ilkley that are well worth a visit after a day of shopping and exploring. Take a trip to one of our favourites, Mediterranean restaurant Quinta, which serves a variety of Portuguese-style food cooked with only the freshest, local ingredients, but there are lots of options around. For something a little decadent, Bettys Café Tea Rooms is famous for its afternoon teas and tempting baked goodies.
If you’re looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy a local tipple, there are spectacular views at the Cow and Calf Inn, a cosy French bistro located in The Crescent Inn, the home of Wharfedale Brewery at The Flying Duck, and many more to pop in and wet your whistle.
If the weather isn’t on your side during your visit, don’t worry! The town is also home to an award-winning independent cinema and two theatres that show a range of performances for all the family – Ilkley Playhouse and King’s Hall and Winter Gardens.
In July, Ilkley’s community music festival is returning for its sixth year and promises to be bigger and better than ever! Ilkley Live is a two-day festival taking place on 10th and 11th July where there’ll be free live music across the town’s pubs, cafes, and gardens showcasing everything from jazz to folk and rock to acoustic so there’s something for everyone.
For bookworms, Ilkley Literature Festival is returning for another year on 2nd to 18th October and is once again bringing together the best writers of contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and poetry with book-loving audiences. Look out for the full programme announcement on 13th August.
What’s On
Lexus Ilkley Open | 7th to 14th June
The Lexus is the largest tennis international tournament in the North of England that’s held annually on the Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club grass courts.
The Girl on the Train | 15th to 20th June
Adapted from the best-selling novel, this play is a gripping psychological thriller coming to Ilkley Playhouse that keeps audiences guessing until the final moments.
photoILKLEY | until 9th August
This grassroots photography festival celebrates photography’s power to connect, question, and see the world anew. Ilkley Manor House will host exhibitions in both the Western Gallery upstairs and the Housebody.
