Saltaire is a Victorian model village which was built in 1851 by mogul of the woollen industry, Sir Titus Salt. In the present day it is a bubbling destination for visitors thanks to its status as a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning it still retains its original look and feel.
The stunning architecture of much of the town was inspired by the Italianate style of the 15th century and built in Yorkshire Sandstone. Aesthetically it is undoubtedly wonderful but culturally it has lots to offer too. Here’s some recommendations of things not to miss if you’re visiting Saltaire.
First and foremost is Salt’s Mill which was the epicentre of production in the town for over 100 years. In 1987, it was re-imagined by the late Jonathan Silver as a place where culture and commerce could thrive together. In the large section open to the public there is an expansive collection of works by renowned artist David Hockney as well as exhibitions about the town itself and another gallery with an ever changing selection too. An array of exciting shops are also housed in the mill which sell the likes of antiques, jewellery, furniture, musical instruments and sturdy outdoor wear. These boutique shops offer a truly memorable experience with special products you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the region. After all the shopping and admiring you’ll be glad to know there’s the option to refuel at Salts Diner which serves everything from cafe bites to three course meals. The standard of food is excellent and so is the vibe thanks to the wonderful building and the pieces of Hockney’s art on show in the Diner. Certainly a great place to include in your trip.
Just around the corner is Victoria Hall which was Sir Titus Salt’s centre for ‘recreation, culture and learning’ for his villagers. Nowadays it serves many of the same purposes. Its large event spaces regularly host events such as beer festivals, holistic health days and vintage home and fashion fairs. It is also a popular wedding venue so make sure to check the listings of what’s on here.
By now it should be clear that art is important to Saltaire and for one weekend a year the whole village joins in one big celebration of it. Saltaire Arts Trail is a community event held annually in May. It offers an imaginative visual arts programme that pairs the village’s rich heritage with both emerging and established artists. The trail uses imaginative venues such as Salts Mill, public buildings and the homes of Saltaire residents to display visual art in non-traditional settings. This year it is taking place on the Spring Bank Holiday weekend (Sat 27 – Mon 29 May) which could be an amazing time to visit to see the village flourish.
A final attraction that is very unique to Saltaire is the Shipley Glen Tramway. It is the oldest working tramway in Britain and operates narrow-gauge ‘toastrack’ cable-hauled trams. It features two trams with canopy tops which run up and down a steep wooded hill every 3 minutes or as required. It was restored and operated by volunteers and it embodies the friendliness of what Saltaire is all about. There is a Museum at the bottom station with a pictorial history and artefacts relating to the tramway which is a short walk over the river from Salts Mill.
