Whether you’re planning a fun day out with the family or finding some new activities to fill some spare time, travelling along a train route can often introduce you to a world of new places and experiences. Beginning in the town of Guiseley, which is often overlooked and unrecognised for its independent business scene, but can become a new place of adventure and bonding for those enjoying a family day out.
Train stop: Guiseley
Guiseley is a small town in Leeds in between Otley and Yeadon. Known as a community-led area in the suburbs, filled with a variety of small businesses, eateries and local attractions such as Guiseley Theatre and Nunroyd Park. Directly next to the station you can find other independents such as The Potting Shed, Shed Load of Vinyl and Blinok Pancake House if you’re fancying something a bit different.
The Hoptimist – The Hoptimist is a local favourite, selling craft beer, gin, cider and rum from different international, national and local breweries. You can find a variety of craft beers for sale in The Hoptimist that come from your local breweries, including Wilde Child Brewing, North Brewing Co and Horsforth Brewery. So before you venture out on a day out with friends or on a day-date, pick up some tasty new drinks from this cool bottle shop.
82 Otley Rd, Guiseley, Leeds LS20 8BH
Bramble Bakehouse – This fresh new cafe in Guiseley has a strong community focus and love welcoming new customers into their stylish spaces. Whether you’re wanting to pop in for a freshly ground coffee to take out or enjoy a tasty breakfast or lunch date, Bramble Bakehouse will be happy to accommodate you. Or for when you’re fancying trying something new with your friends, you can book a bespoke afternoon tea indulging in delicious sandwiches and sweet treats.
6 Springfield Rd, Guiseley, Leeds LS20 8AL
Train stop: Ben Rhydding
Ben Rhydding is a small village in the City of Bradford and closely located next to the popular town of Ilkley. Although the village may be small in size, they are filled with a selection of amazing small businesses and an area perfect for a spot of shopping. You can find businesses like Floral Dance, Norton and Townsend and Furniss Family Butchers along the streets.
Pranzo – If you’re looking for some authentic, rustic flavours from the heart of Italy, then you need to step into Pranzo. The perfect spot for date night or a catch-up with friends, Pranzo offers a modern pasta menu using the finest local ingredients and others imported straight from Italy. Accompanied by a selection of fine wines from around the world, you’ll be excited to return for more.
139 Bolling Rd, Ben Rhydding, Ilkley LS29 8PN
Train stop: Ilkley
Ilkley is a popular spa town, north of the city centre of Bradford, known for its beautiful countryside, moorlands, fresh air and the small independent businesses scattered along the streets. Ilkley is the ideal place to relax and treat yourself, with plenty of exceptional restaurants and unique shops like Jeremy Bloomfield Jewellers, The Ilkley Shoe Company and Nora’s Interiors. The town is also famous for being the second home of Bettys Cafe and Tea Rooms, and their regular farmers markets and summer festivals.
Emporio Italia – For some more authentic Italian food, you can try Emporio Italia in Ilkley, a family run business that has been established since 2005. They capture the flavours of Italy and serve them up in every plate of food, using the freshest natural ingredients within the beautiful setting of Ilkley.
7 Railway Rd, Ilkley LS29 8HQ
Corner House Interiors – Corner House Interiors is an independent retailer selling decorative accessories, furniture and gifts. Ideal for those house-hunting or first time buyers, you can pick up a new piece or two of furniture or treat someone to the stunning gifts they have available. With everything from eccentric pieces to staple furniture you’ll be sure to find something for your home.
17 Leeds Rd, Ilkley LS29 8DP
Friends of Ham – Other than their bar in Leeds, Friends of Ham also have an amazing space in Ilkley and have established themselves as a multi-award winning continental-style cafe bar. They specialise in the finest charcuterie boards, cheese, craft beer and wine. An absolute haven of food and drinks in a welcoming space, the perfect spot to settle down in the afternoon or evening.
8 Wells Rd, Ilkley LS29 9JD
The Ilkley Cafe Company – The Ilkley Cafe Company is a local independent cafe that strives to serve you the best quality, great tasting food in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. So for when the weather is grey or it’s a non-rainy day, they have seating both inside and on the patio with parasols and heaters to make all their customers comfortable. You can get cosy inside and try out their ethically sourced coffee beans from Brazil and Guatemala and avoid the cold Autumn weather.
14-16 Wells Rd, Ilkley LS29 9JD
