Wakefield

An industrial town in the west of Yorkshire, Wakefield is a city conurbation that has a rich history, particularly with reference to the industries that once made it one of the most active towns in the north of England. Coal mining, textiles and the corn trade were all part and parcel of daily life at times during the town’s history, and it has held market town status for many hundreds of years.

Situated as it is on the edge of the splendorous Pennines, Wakefield is increasingly viewed as a tourist destination and as such has much to offer.

 

With attractions ranging from the stunning Wakefield Cathedral – tallest in Yorkshire – through to the beautiful old stone bridge with its ancient Chantry Chapel there is great diversity in things to do, and the town is well served by a number of modern and more traditional shops, a wide variety of pubs and restaurants and easy access by both road and rail.

National Coal Mining Museum, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Wakefield WF4 4RH (01924) 848806
Housed in a colliery that was built towards the end of the 18th Century, the National Coal Mining Museum was opened in 1988.
Now conducting underground tours, a wander through the Hope Pit and a series of special exhibitions throughout the year; a visit to the National Coal Mining Museum is a great day out.

Wakefield Museum, Wood Street, Wakefield WF1 2EW (01924) 305356
You wouldn’t expect Wakefield to have connections with the rainforests of South America, but thanks to the explorer and conservationist, Charles Waterton, Wakefield Museum has a unique selection of rare species collected on his journey through South America.
Other exhibits include artefacts from Roman Britain and objects from Wakefield’s social history.