On the edge of Bradford and only 12 miles from Leeds, there is a distinctive village with a character that is both down to earth and aspirational. Saltaire is an immediately attractive vision of Yorkshire, with handsome Victorian buildings nearby the passing Leeds Liverpool Canal. It was built in 1851 by Sir Titus Salt who named it after himself and the River Aire which also runs through, and since 2001 Saltaire has been a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Unsurprisingly, it is a delightful place to visit, and today is filled with marvellous modern businesses maintaining Saltaire’s individual charm and style. Its most famous attraction, Salts Mill, has been here since 1987, when the galleries opened in the village’s grand old textile mill, exhibiting art by David Hockney and attracting folk from all over Yorkshire and beyond. Now, the impressive site contains multiple reasons to visit, including a diner and book shop as well as the inspiring galleries.
Elsewhere, there is plenty to discover without venturing far. The other significant building here is Victoria Hall, an imposing structure which is now an event space for weddings, parties and conferences that are sure to be special. And a wander round the other buildings in Saltaire will find unique independent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants within.
Unique finds can be discovered in a number of characterful shops; Rad Studio is a stylish store selling gifts, homeware and other accessories that will make you smile. The Saltaire Vintage Shop does what its name describes impeccably, as expert antique and vintage dealers stock a great range of treasures. Mr Whetstone is an admirable sustainable store where you can pick up low waste and reusable products, from foods to beauty. And another environmentally sound refill shop also doubles up as an attractive gallery and coffee shop, as Giddy Arts provides many reasons to visit.
More quality coffee can be sipped at Saltaire’s relaxing cafes. Tambourine Coffee pride themselves on the highest quality speciality coffee in a lovely laid back space. The Quaffery extend the choice to include an espresso bar, tea bar, chocolate bar, milkshake bar and more, all excellent. Or you can get healthy and holistic at Dandelion Cafe, who serve exciting and fresh vegan food as well as hosting Heather Yoga classes.
Whilst Saltaire provides a beautiful day out, it also offers an equal array of attractions into the night. Dine out on authentic and elegant Indian cuisine at Jinnah Bistro, or on award winning Neapolitan pizza at Il Pirata Pizzata. Traditional classics are cooked up at The Boathouse Inn, a contemporary pub restaurant set scenically in a refurbished riverside boathouse.
It is believed that Saltaire historically banned alcohol from the village, with no pubs allowed here. Today, that is most definitely not the case, and there are some wonderful bars to crawl around. From wine and cocktails at Tallulah’s Wine Bar to draught ales at the cosy Cap and Collar, plus Saltaire even has its own successful breweries. Saltaire Brewery is actually located down the road in Shipley, but in the centre of the village is Salt Brew Co. who serve their fresh brews at the fabulous Salt Beer Factory taproom. And if you want to take a tipple or two home with you, newcomer Cultures is a deli and draught-house to enjoy in or take away in refill bottles – an apt way to toast the wonders of Saltaire.
