Ilkley is a market town and civil parish in Yorkshire, England. Located in the Wharfedale Valley in the West of the county, the town lies 10 miles north of Bradford and 17 miles northwest of Leeds. It is at the forefront of Yorkshire’s tourism industry and is known for its natural attractions and is a popular destination for visitors of all ages. The town is also known for its well-preserved historic buildings and its vibrant cultural scene.
1. Ilkley Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
For a casual and relaxed first date, Ilkley has many parks and places to explore and take a leisurely stroll while getting to know each other. The River Wharfe flows through the town and is lined with tree-lined riverbanks, providing plenty of picturesque spots to wander. One of the most scenic spots is Ilkley Moor, made famous by the song 'On Ilkla Moor Baht'at'. Here visitors can take a walk to explore the ancient limestone pavements, stone circles and rock formations. Closer to town, there is the Ilkley Riverside Gardens, which provide a tranquil and delightful riverside walk, as well as plenty of benches to pause and chat. For a more energetic walk, a popular trail is to walk up to the Cow and Calf Rocks for panoramic views across the valley.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Ilkley
For a coffee date, Ilkley has a selection of independent cafes and coffee shops to choose from. Visitors can find the popular family run cafe The Brown Pot on Brook Street offering homemade cakes, savoury snacks and a variety of hot drinks. There is also the Rombalds Tea Room on Leeds Road serving light snacks, tea and coffee. The cafe overlooks the river and has tables outside for a coffee with a view. Other coffee shops worth a visit are The Little Teapot on Church Street and Ilkley Kitchen & Coffee House on Boroughgate.
3. Ilkley Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Ilkley offers a range of galleries, museums and exhibitions, some of which are free. The Ilkley Manor House is a Grade I listed building with a fine collection of paintings, sculpture and furniture dating back to the 16th century. The Manor House also provides regular guided tours, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the history of the house and the town. The Ilkley Toy Museum is another highlight, exhibiting a range of vintage toys. The museum is open all year round and is ideal for an interesting and educational date. Those looking for more contemporary art should head to the Ilkley Art Gallery which features an ever-changing selection of modern art, including paintings, sculptures and prints.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Ilkley
For those looking for live music and entertainment, Ilkley has plenty to offer. The Ilkley Playhouse is a popular venue for comedy, theatre and live music. Their regular live music nights offer a great opportunity for a relaxed night out and the venue’s bar has a selection of drinks to enjoy before or after the show. The Royal Hall also hosts regular music and comedy shows, as well as theatre performances and dance shows. For those looking for a more laid-back evening, The Crown & Duck on Bridge Street hosts regular jazz and blues nights, providing an intimate and romantic atmosphere.
5. Ilkley Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Ilkley has a range of pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from for a first date drink or food. For a romantic meal, The Yorkshire Heart is a great choice, with a selection of home-cooked British cuisine served in its stylish dining area. The Crown Inn is also popular, offering a range of real ales, wines and beers. For those looking for a livelier atmosphere, The Fleece Inn is worth a visit, offering a range of beers, wines and cocktails as well as a variety of live music and entertainment.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Ilkley
For those looking for something a little different, Ilkley has plenty of other date ideas to try. The town is home to the World of Wedgwood - a replica of the historic Wedgwood Factory and Museum, offering visitors a fascinating tour of its history and production processes. There is also Ilkley Cycle Hire, providing a great way to explore the town and its surroundings on two wheels.
