Walking in Bradford

As well as cycling around Bradford, we’re keen to encourage all modes of ‘active travel’ in the District. Combining public transport with walking also counts whilst wheeling and scooting are not to be overlooked! In February last year we recieved funding from CityConnect at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to be an Active Travel Hub. Encouraging other active modes has been something we’ve been working on as part of this programme.

Why Walk?

Walking to and from work, the shops or study is a great way to combine gentle exercise with getting where you need to go. Your body, your wallet and the environment all benefit as a result.

CityConnect has some useful resources on walking as well as a route planner you can make use of here: https://www.cyclecityconnect.co.uk/get-walking/

Walking in Bradford City Centre

Lots of streets in Bradford are pedestrianised and there are usually fairly good pavements around the city centre. Walking around is on the best way to see Bradford’s historic architecture such as The Wool Exchange or City Hall. You could try this city-centre heritage route:

https://www.visitbradford.com/things-to-do/bradford-city-centre-heritage-trail-p1765821

If you’re just wanting to get around, to work or the shops, you’ll have noticed there is a large project underway to improve the city for active travel at the moment with certain streets being pedestrianised, a new market being built and some of the uglier buildings being demolished. The aim is to make walking and cycling the natural choice for short journeys and to make a more pleasant environment for people to dwell in.

So why not mix it up? Leave the car at home and jump on the train, bus or bike – ditch it somewhere and use your own power to move!

Walking Trails and Routes around the District

The wider district has some great walking routes, from easy circular routes around Lister Park to proper hiking expeditions from Shipley to Ilkley.

Discover Bradford has an extensive list of walks divided by area. You’ll be able to find something that’s accessible by foot, bike or bus:

https://www.discoverbradford.com/walking

The All Trails website has some good suggestions if you’re looking to break in some new walking shoes!

https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/england/west-yorkshire/bradford

The Komoot site also has a good list:

https://www.komoot.com/guide/674223/hiking-around-bradford

Visit Bradford has some excellent historical walks as well as nature appreciation routes to try:

https://www.visitbradford.com/things-to-do/great-outdoors/popular-walking-routes/walking-routes

Your suggestions

Do you have some favourite tips about walking in Bradford or suggestions about how we can encourage more active travel in Bradford? Feel free to leave a comment below.