Yorkshire’s hideaway
Brighouse
PLACE
Rolling hills and cobbled streets enclose this small town in West Yorkshire. Tucked away between Leeds and Halifax on the River Calder, Brighouse offers everything – and more – that a small Yorkshire town should be.
SEE
Bird watchers will love the Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve (visitcalderdale.com), one of the most significant wildlife sites in the area, the meadows provide habitats for many insects and a bird feeding area attracts many of the species to the site.
It is rich in plant and wildlife and packed with lakes, woodlands, and fields. A short drive takes you to Haworth, home of the Brontës.
The Brontë Museum (bronte.org.uk) sits in the beautifully restored family house. Personal effects such as a writing desk, pens and some of their dresses offer a glimpse into their simple lives.
DO
Stretch every muscle in your body and test your skills on the UK’s highest outdoor climbing wall. Brighouse may be reinventing itself as the UK’s top rock climbing destination.
ROKT (01484 717444/rokt.co.uk), situated in a derelict flour mill, includes indoor climbing walls, a 300ft caving system, spin and yoga studios, an indoor children’s play area and three escape rooms entitled “project breakout”.
Choose between three different themed rooms to test your brain and team-building skills. Activities from £15.
Children will also love Eureka – The National Children’s Museum (eureka.org.uk) where children can “shop” in Marks & Spencer and explore the fire station and post office.
EAT
The quintessentially Yorkshire Miller’s bar (themillersbar.co.uk) in Brighouse is owned by ROKT. It has a quaint, cosy feel, yet its decor is modern and the bar is traditional. Having consistently been voted as one of the 30 favourite pubs in Yorkshire it’s definitely not one to miss.
Upstairs is 47 Grains (01484 937 977/47grains.co.uk), a restaurant featuring locallysourced food, from steak to seafood risottos, and Baileys cheesecake to die for. Around £70 for two.
DRINK
Jeremy’s at the Boat House (01484 719819/ jeremysattheboat house.co.uk) sits on the canal basin. It’s the place for live music.
STAY
The Waterfront Hotel (01484 715566/waterfronthoteland venue.co.uk) sits right on the canal in the centre of town with views across Brighouse.
The hotel is in a prime location and features modern decor, cream wood interior with red accents. Upgrade to a deluxe suite for an extra large room and additional features such as a Jacuzzi bathroom.
Breakfast is included featuring a full English and continental options. Doubles from £70, (two sharing), room only.