From fascinating museums to underground attractions, a day out in Bradford has loads to offer.
When was the last time you visited Bradford? As the UK’s City of Culture 2025, the West Yorkshire city has a lot going for it. What’s more, it’s quick, easy and affordable to find your Bradford with First Bus.
From Leeds, hop on the X6, with extra journeys running at peak times to get you there even faster, or even better, take the 72 which runs 24/7 around the clock so it’s there whenever you need it – you’ll be in Bradford no time. All aboard!
Celebrate the city’s cultural status

Credit: Max Lee
There’s a packed calendar of events in store for Bradford UK City of Culture 2025, taking you from craft workshops to live gigs. Highlights include Bassline Symphony, which sees 4×4 legends backed by the orchestra of Opera North, and a production of The Railway Children, performed on the very train tracks where the film was shot.
Where: All across the city
Find out more: bradford2025.co.uk
Catch a show at a historic theatre
The Alhambra Theatre is not only a stunning example of Edwardian architecture, it’s also one of the North’s premier venues for live performance. With ornate plasterwork, a sparkling chandelier and a grand domed ceiling, the theatre provides a truly magical setting for a night out. Catch Hamilton there for a seven-week stint this year.
Where: Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ
Find out more: bradford-theatres.co.uk
Dig into the world of media

Credit: National Science & Media Museum
Spanning seven floors of interactive exhibits, The National Science and Media Museum is a fascinating day out for the whole family. The highlight is the Wonderlab, an immersive gallery where you can take part in 20 live experiments. There’s even an IMAX theatre so you can catch a film at one of the largest screens in the UK.
Where: Pictureville, Bradford, BD1 1NQ.
Find out more: scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk
Embrace the great outdoors
There’s plenty of places to get out in nature in Bradford, like Horton Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city, and Bowling Park, home to a play area, bowling green and panoramic view over the city centre. But the crown jewel has to be Lister Park, a Green-Flag awarded park with a unique Islamic and Hindu architectural-style water garden.
Where: Bradford, BD9 4PX.
Find out more: bradforddistrictparks.org
Browse a food market
A trip to Oastler Market is guaranteed to be tasty. Situated inside the Oastler Centre, the market boasts a wide array of stores selling everything from fresh meat and home-cooked pies, to Afro-Caribbean food and exotic spices. Be sure to stop off at one of the many food stalls to grab a bite before you leave.
Where: 3SR, John Street, Bradford, BD1 3JS.
Find out more: bradfordmarkets.com
Play a round of mini golf
Nothing beats a round of crazy golf, and Looney Golf is the first of its kind in Bradford. Tackle their neon-splashed courses as you avoid the obstacles and aim for a hole in one. Still fighting over who won? Take on one of their other challenges, like archery and football pool, before grabbing a drink and a snack in the cafe.
Where: 33 North Parade, Bradford, BD1 3JH.
Find out more: looneygolf.co.uk
Dig into a proper curry

Credit: Lucinda Kennedy
Crowned Curry Capital of Britain for six years in a row, Bradford’s the place to go for authentic Asian food. Home to a host of renowned restaurants like Sweet Centre and Mumtaz, there’s plenty of choice. There’s even the fully-vegetarian Prashad out in Drighlington. Only one question remains – how hot can you go?
Where: 386-410 Great Horton Rd, Bradford, BD7 3HS.
Find out more: mumtaz.org.uk
Go to a live gig
Bradford’s live music scene caters to every taste, from rock and indie to blues and punk. Check out up and coming talent at The Underground, visit The Nightrain, a hub for rock and alternative music, or head to one of the UK’s oldest concert halls, the Victorian St George’s Hall – set to host big name acts like Frankie Vallie and The Drifters.
Where: Bridge Street, Bradford, BD1 1JT.
Find out more: bradford-theatres.co.uk
Explore the city’s cinematic history

Credit: Andy Garbutt Science Museum Group
As the world’s first UNESCO City of Film, Bradford’s cinematic heritage is seriously impressive. You can delve into its history while exploring the region on the Bradford Movie Trail, visiting locations like the village where Emmerdale was originally filmed, to the Bradford Odeon, which was coined the ‘wonder cinema of the north’ when it first opened in 1930.
Where: Across the region.
Find out more: bradford-city-of-film.com
Discover an underground network of bars
Did you know there’s an underground tunnel network in Bradford, packed with independent bars and restaurants? Head to Millergate and you’ll find Sunbridge Wells, a former air raid shelter which is now a hub of entertainment and leisure. With Victorian stylings from Bradford Museums and Art Galleries, it’s great for a unique night out.
Where: Millergate, Bradford, BD1 1SD.
Find out more: instagram.com/sunbridgewells
Hit the shops
If you’re in need of a shopping spree, a trip to The Broadway is in order. Home to huge high street brands like Primark and JD, you’ll find everything you need in one place. And when you’re finished shopping, how about a cup of chai and a bite to eat? We love Chaat Chaska – the flavours and textures of this Pakistani street food stall are unrivalled.
Where: Hall Ings, Bradford, BD1 1JR.
Find out more: broadwaybradford.com
Check out the North’s prettiest Waterstones

Credit: Michael D Beckwith
Bradford’s Waterstones is unique. Housed within the Grade-I listed Wool Exchange, its stunning Victorian Gothic architecture features soaring arches, intricate stonework and stained glass windows, perfect for transporting you to another world. Grab a coffee from the cafe and sit on the balcony with your newest read for a truly chilled out experience.
Where: The Wool Exchange, Hustlergate, Bradford, BD1 1BL.
Find out more: waterstones.com
Find your Bradford with First Bus
Getting to Bradford by bus could be quicker than you think, thanks to First Bus’ 72 and X6 routes from Leeds. What’s more, Single tickets cost just £2 and Day tickets £5 when you use the First Bus app.
- 72 – now running 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with buses up to every 15 minutes.
- X6 – running all through the day, with up to three buses an hour. This super-fast route travels across the Stanningley Bypass, shaving 10 minutes off the journey.