Bradford Heritage Connection

Guided Walk with the Aire Rivers Trust / Friends of Bradford’s Becks
2026-07-14 13:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London)
FULLY BOOKED
Join us for a guided walk of Bradford’s Becks. Along the way you will learn about the natural and industrial heritage of these becks, and hopefully see some special wildlife along the way.
Meeting Point: FULLY BOOKED
Walk is Free of Charge
aireriverstrust.org.uk
bradford-beck.org

From Archive to Aniline: 170 Years of Mauvine
2026-07-15 10:00 - 16:00 | The SDC Textile Collection at the Society of Dyers and Colourists Perkin House Bradford BD1 2LU
Join us at the SDC Textile Collection celebrating 170 years since William Henry Perkin’s discovery of mauvine. Explore historic textiles, chemical innovation, and the birth of synthetic colour, with opportunities to view additional treasures from the archive alongside displays, stories, and expert insights on display.
Free drop in

Story Telling with Sophia Hatfield
2026-07-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Bronte Parsonage, Bronte Parsonage Museum, Church Street, Haworth, BD22 8DR
Listen to Sophia Hatfield’s entertaining take on local stories and folklore – with music costume and props!
‘Drop in’ between the above times. Suitable for all ages. Free to Museum visitors

Bradford Playhouse Guided Tour
2026-07-15 12:30 - 13:30 | Bradford Playhouse, 4-12 Chapel Street, Bradford, BD1 5DL
Step inside our historic Art Deco building and uncover its story from the 1920s through to today. You’ll hear about the influence of Bradford-born writer J. B. Priestley and his belief in theatre that reflects real lives and communities.We’ll also explore the legacy of Esmé Church, a pioneering director, actor and teacher who led the Bradford Civic Playhouse and helped establish professional theatre training in the North.
Book online at www.bradfordplayhouse.org.uk
Pay As You Feel

Exploring Traditional Stained Glass Painting
2026-07-15 13:00 - 16:00 | Studio 1, South Square Centre, Thornton, BD13 3LD
This hands on workshop introduces the techniques of traditional stained glass painting used in medieval and historic stained glass. You will explore tracing, matting and shading with vitreous paint working directly onto glass.
BOOKING IN ADVANCE is required for this CHARGED workshop.
https://www.samanthayates.org/online/p/exploringtraditionalglasspainting

Bradford Playhouse Archive Session
2026-07-15 13:45 - 14:30 | Bradford Playhouse, 4-12 Chapel Street, Bradford, BD1 5DL
Stay on for a deeper dive into our archives, with original programmes, photographs, and stories from nearly a century of theatre-making. From early productions to the Playhouse we know today, it’s a chance to get properly stuck into the history – and the people – that built it. A lovely way to spend an afternoon whether you’re into theatre, local history, or just fancy having a proper nose around.
Book online at www.bradfordplayhouse.org.uk
Pay As You Feel

A History of Keighley Library (Presentation)
2026-07-15 14:30 - 16:30 | Keighley Local Studies Library, Keighley Library, North Street, Keighley, BD21 3SX
An illustrated talk on the history of Keighley Library, the first Andrew Carnegie financed library in England, which opened in 1904 – taking place in the library itself.
Free event, no need to book.

The Community Cookbook
2026-07-15 16:00 - 18:00 | Bradford Local Studies Library, Margaret McMillan Tower, BD1 1NN
Join us for a special celebration as we launch The Community Cookbook — a heart‑warming collection of recipes. Enjoy an afternoon of stories, community spirit and a talk from The Cinderella Club, and their work to bring free school meals to Bradford.

This intimate event takes place at Bradford Local Studies Library. Due to limited capacity in the building, booking is essential. Everyone who contributed a recipe will be invited, so remaining seats are limited.

To reserve your place: Call 01274 433688 or email local.studies@bradford.gov.uk
Come along, share in the nostalgia, and be part of a new chapter in Bradford’s heritage.

Classrooms & Communities: Bradford’s Education Journey
2026-07-16 10:30 - 15:00 | Mechanics Institute Festival Hub
Step back into the buzz of the classroom, the thrill of student societies, and the proud legacy of Bradford’s educational pioneers. Drop in to a day shaped by archives, small exhibitions, inspiring talks, and captivating film screenings — including newly digitised gems from the Bradford Grammar School Film Society (1960–1968), shown to the public for the very first time.
For one day only, West Yorkshire Archive Service, University of Bradford Special Collections and Archives, Yorkshire Film Archive, the Mechanics Institute, the Saltaire Collection at Shipley College, Hanson Academy and Bradford Grammar School — will unite under one roof to celebrate the stories, spirit, and impact of education in Bradford.
Join us for a one‑of‑a‑kind celebration of the people, places, and learning that shaped generations.
Drop in all day:
10:30-15:30 – Open day featuring exhibitions, archive material, information stands
11:00-15:00 – ‘Create Your Own Exercise Book’ through bookbinding workshops – West Yorkshire Archive Service
Timed activities (no need to book):
11:00-11:45 – Film Screening – Yorkshire Film Archive & Bradford Grammar School
14:00-14:45 – Film Screening – Yorkshire Film Archive & Bradford Grammar School [Repeat of 11am screening]

Modelling the Catherdral - Tour
2026-07-16 11:00 - 12:00 | Bradford Cathedral, 1 Stott Hill, Bradford, BD1 4EH
Guided tour of the Cathedral’s fascinating architecture, including Saxon stone fragments, the medieval elements of the current building, Victorian changes and mid-20th century extensions by renowned architect Sir Edward Maufe. The tour will start outside but will mainly be based inside. After the tour, there will be the opportunity to compare the building with Michael’s Scott’s amazing N-Scale model, which will be on display.
Tickets cost £7 and are available on https://architectural-tour.eventbrite.co.uk . Book early to avoid disappointment.

A Saunter Round the Sights (and a Canter up the Cobbles)
2026-07-16 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Bronte Parsonage, Bronte Parsonage Museum, Church Street, Haworth, BD22 8DR
The year is 1848. Join Tabbitha Ackroyd (Bronte servant and confidante) and John Brown (grave digger and tippler) for their tour of Haworth. See the sights and get the gossip. Be introduced to doctors and lady novelists, maiden aunts and sewage inspectors. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot a Bronte…
This event brings history to life through characters and stories the Brontës knew.
It is free of charge with museum entrance, but booking is recommended as there are limited places. It is an outside promenade performance beginning at the Brontë Parsonage Museum and taking place in the churchyard and the top of Main Street.
This performance will last approximately 50 mins and is suitable for all ages.

Exploring Traditional Stained Glass Painting
2026-07-16 13:00 - 16:00 | Studio 1, South Square Centre, Thornton, BD13 3LD
Both dates are now sold out – Thank you.
This event is now happening the 15th and 16th of July at 1pm.
Join us for a hands on workshop which introduces the techniques of traditional stained glass painting used in medieval and historic stained glass.
Explore tracing, matting and shading with vitreous paint working directly onto glass during the workshop.
Essential Information:
BOOKING IN ADVANCE is required for this PAID workshop

Topic Folk Club: singers, musicians & performers evening
2026-07-16 19:00 - 22:00 | The Castle, 20 Grattan Road Bradford BD1 2LU
TOPIC FOLK CLUB – SINGERS. MUSICIANS & PERFORMERS EVENING.
The Castle, 20 Grattan Road, Bradford Thursday 16 July .
Doors 7pm, start 7.30pm
No Booking needed.
The Topic are a hub for musicians’ poets and story tellers to share their love of live performance .And a stepping stone for many folk into the world of live music and shows. Providing a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. Tonight’s theme is Bradford’s Heritage. Come along bring your talent or just listen. All welcome

Story Quest
2026-07-17 10:30 - 14:30 | Forster Square Train Station
Benny’s Big Bradford Adventure is a one hour story trail around Bradford City Centre starting at Forster Square Station and ending at City Library. Can you and the family help Benny uncover Bradford’s Hidden History?
The Quest begins at Forster Square Train Station before the trail begins. It takes around one hour and completes at Bradford City Library.

There are two timeslots for the Story Quest,
10:30 – 12.00
13:00 – 14:30

Please confirm your attendance and the selected slot by emailing Nabeelah.hafeez@literacytrust.org.uk

Heritage at St Ives: Dry Stone Walling Demo
2026-07-17 11:00 - 2026-07-18 15:00 | St Ives, BD16 1AT
Apologies! this event is cancelled but please look for it in the September Heritage
Open Days programme at other venuesSee local dry stone walling volunteers repair a section of heritage wall using the time-honoured craft skills that make the Yorkshire landscape so unique. Historical estate near Bingley with walks to Coppice Pond and Lady Blantyre’s rock; characterful buildings and cafe, against a backdrop of stunning woodlands.

(* Wall location: beside Bettys Wood and above the lower car park).

Friday and Saturday, July 17th and 18th, 11am to 3pm.

Free, no booking required.

“Music: It’s a Sin.” Attitudes and Practices of music during the English Civil War and the Interregnum 1640-1660
2026-07-17 11:30 - 12:30 | Bradford Mechanics Institute, 76 Kirkgate, Bradford, BD1 1SZ
A turbulent era of rebellion, reinvention and forbidden pleasures comes to life as we explore the English Civil War and Restoration through the eyes—and ears—of the musicians who lived it. Discover the ballads, dances and soundscapes that carried people through a divided nation, from Playford’s lively tunes to the melodies that stirred both Royalist and Parliamentarian hearts.

Free drop in

Saltaire Summer Evening Walking Tour and Performance
2026-07-17 18:30 - 19:30 | Meet outside United Reform Church, Victoria Road, Saltaire
Jump aboard the time machine with Saltaire Victorian, Pollie Toothill. Travel back to when Sir Titus Salt was around. Become a village character, discover a scandal or two! See key buildings and houses. Learn about Titus’s early life and why Saltaire? It’s factual and fun!

Tickets: £10 (£8 under 16 years)
All tickets/more info from Joanna.edutainment@gmail.com (Mobile) 07968095132

Shadows of Bradford
2026-07-17 18:30 - 20:30 | The Corn Dolly Pub, Bolton Road, BD1 4DE
Join historians Cat Stiles and Melissa Seims for a pint or two as they delve into three dark stories of Bradford’s past. Expect witchcraft, plague, and occult discoveries from our city’s hidden history.
FREE Drop In. It will be busy arrive early to secure a seat

Meet the Cones - Storytelling
2026-07-18 10:00 - 11:00 | Manningham Library, Carlisle Road, Bradford, BD8 8BB
Meet the Cones and discover how they’re helping to look after Bradford’s brilliant city centre! Join us for a fun, lively reading of Cones and Transforming Bradford and explore the city’s beautiful heritage buildings through the eyes of these colourful characters. With author Chris Madeley.
FREE Drop In

Avenue Stories
2026-07-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Bradford Park Avenue AFC, Horsfall Community Stadium, Cemetery Road, BD6 2NG
Avenue stories: A heritage coffee drop at the Horsfall
Bradford Park Avenue AFC, Horsfall Community Stadium, Cemetery Road, BD6 2NG
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming Heritage Coffee Drop at Horsfall Stadium, celebrating the rich history of Bradford Park Avenue. This informal gathering invites supporters of all ages to come together over a cup of coffee, share personal stories, browse historic programmes, and explore club archives.
The event is designed to spark conversation, preserve memories, and connect generations of fans, offering a space where lifelong supporters and new followers alike can learn from one another. Rooted in the club’s core value of belonging, the day aims to strengthen community ties and honour the shared identity that makes Bradford Park Avenue special.
Drop In FREE

Welcome Sounds
2026-07-18 10:00 - 16:00 | National Science and Media Museum
FREE DROP IN
Get your dancing shoes on for a free family party at the National Science and Media Museum. Join the Storywala caravan, test your music knowledge in a live family gameshow, get hands-on in creative workshops, party the afternoon away at a silent disco and more!
Join the Bradford South Asian Festival’s storywala caravan and share your heritage stories and memories.

An audience with Florence White political campaigner
2026-07-18 10:30 - 14:00
Come and meet former mill worker Florence White, a forgotten Bradford trailblazer, fought tirelessly for justice for ‘spinsters’ forced to work until 70. Born into poverty and leaving school at 12, she used education and politics to win retirement at 60 for women nationwide. Meet the remarkable woman who challenged the establishment — and won.

10.30am Police Museum
11.30am Food Court Darley Street Market
12.30 Mechanics Institute, for 15 min interactive show

South Square Heritage Weekend
2026-07-18 10:30 - 15:00 | Studio 1, South Square Centre, Thornton, BD13 3LD
Head to South Square for a great mix of free events and exhibitions. See an heritage display in the Community Room and hear talks from the Thornton Antiquarian Society who will have an open studio for you to explore their archive.
Plus, they’ll be free demonstrations from Sue Tomkins, a member of StrawCraftsmen, showing you how to make your own Corn Dollies.
Join the South Square Collage Club to learn how to make your own heritage themed collage. They’ll be some photos from antiquarians archive, plus old Bradford maps to create your own artwork, so come along and have a go for free!
This will be happening alongside exhibitions in the galleries including ‘Costing the Earth’, a partnership exhibition with Impressions Gallery, a solo exhibition in Plenty at the Square by Saima Kaur, who creates hand embroideries that are inspired by the textile” traditions of Punjab, India, and a pop-up exhibition by Thornton Beckfoot School students in the Community Room.
Free drop in.

Free Guided Tours of World Heritage Saltaire
2026-07-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Meet at Saltaire United Reformed Church, Victoria Road
See Saltaire on one of four exceptional two hour visits led by knowledgeable local historians. Why exceptional? Read on.
Your exceptional experience will start at the United Reformed Church with a slideshow painting Saltaire’s backstory. Then you’ll visit the church’s glorious worship room and Sir Titus Salt’s family mausoleum. A walking tour of the village’s star locations follows.
This event is FREE but we trust you will make a donation to support the work of the event’s non-profit organisers (the Church, the Saltaire Collection, and the Saltaire History Club).
Tour start times: 11am, 12pm, 1pm Please Note: There was a tur planned for 10am but this is no longer going ahead. The tours at 11am, 12pm and 1pm are going ahead as planned
Please book in advance as places will be limited.

Free Guided Tours of World Heritage Saltaire
2026-07-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Meet at Saltaire United Reformed Church, Victoria Road
Your exceptional experience will start at the United Reformed Church with a slideshow painting Saltaire’s backstory. Then you’ll visit the church’s glorious worship room and Sir Titus Salt’s family mausoleum. A walking tour of the village’s star locations follows.
This event is FREE but we trust you will make a donation to support the work of the event’s non-profit organisers (the Church, the Saltaire Collection, and the Saltaire History Club).
Tour start times: 11am, 12pm, 1pm
Please book in advance as places will be limited.

Heritage Games in the Market
2026-07-18 11:00 - 14:30 | Darley Street Market Food Hall
Roll up, roll up! Take on our heritage carnival games — Roll‑a‑Coin, Ball‑in‑a‑Bucket and Table Quoits — led by our very own Victorian Carnival Host. Step up, have a go, and claim your bragging rights.
Also enjoy some live music and look out forhistorical character Florence White making an appearance!
Free drop in.

Shipley Summer Special - Heritage and Sport
2026-07-18 11:00 - 15:00 | Shipley Town
Shipley Summer Special returns on the 18th July with free family fun including markets, music, skateboarding, inflatables, a climbing tower and games across town. This year also highlights local heritage, featuring canal artworks, heritage trail ideas, and the naming of new sheep sculptures celebrating Shipley’s history.
Drop in FREE

Railway Museum Heritage Hunt
2026-07-18 11:00 - 16:00 | Engine Shed Museum, Ingrow West Station on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, South Street, Ingrow, BD21 5AX
Visit the Engine Shed railway museum and hunt for items which help tell our story – prize for everyone who takes part.
Free entry if you buy a Rover Ticket to travel on the KWVR. If not, you can buy a joint entry ticket to visit both the Engine Shed and Carriage museums (£6 adults, £5 concessions, £4 children) or a single museum entry ticket (£4 adults, £3.50 concessions, £3 children). Under 5s are free.

Exhibtions at Ilkley Manor House
2026-07-18 11:00 - 16:00 | Ilkley Manor House, Castle Yard, Ilkley LS29 9DT
Coming to Ilkley Manor House, photo ILKLEY is Ilkley’s first photography festival that brings together emerging talent and important contemporary voices. Discover winning images from the Young Photographers Competition and compelling projects exploring identity, inequality and representation.
FREE Drop in.
There plenty of off street parking as well as parking in the main car park which is a couple of minutes walk from the House. There is no parking at the Manor House. The main train station is a 5 minute walk from House. There is no lift to the upstairs floors at the House.
