Cleckheaton's Best Bits - An Insider's Mini Guide to Living in Cleckheaton

Situated in the heart of the Spen Valley, Cleckheaton is a charming town in West Yorkshire.

A former mill town with a rich industrial history, today the town still forms a part of the Heavy Woollen District along with Batley, Heckmondwike, Ossett and Dewsbury. With plenty of shops and markets, the town is a hub of activity with all the modern amenities needed for day to day life. But it’s not just a town with shops, restaurants and pubs, its location in God’s Own Country means there’s easy access through to the stunning countryside of Yorkshire. So, if you’re thinking of making this delightful town your next home, make sure to take a look at some of this town’s highlights.

Arts and culture in Cleckheaton

For 34 years, the town of Cleckheaton has hosted the ‘Cleckheaton Folk Festival’, which proudly celebrates Yorkshire’s rich heritage of folk music and folk dance. The event features a variety of performers, workshops as well as street entertainment and markets, and takes place during the summer months.

Thanks to Cleckheaton’s location in the heart of the Spen Valley, the town has easy road access to many of the major towns and cities in the area. Just half an hour away is the city of Wakefield, which is home to both The Hepworth Gallery and Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The gallery features impressive sculptures created by its namesake, as well as works by Henry Moore, Ben Nicholson, Jacob Epstein and many others. The gallery also hosts several fairs which run throughout the year where you can pick up unique gifts, ceramics, prints and much more! And if you’re looking for the finest in modern and contemporary sculpture from some of the world’s leading artists, then a visit to Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a must!

Also within easy reach of Cleckheaton is the town of Halifax, which is home to the stunning Piece Hall. The venue is home to a number of independent businesses selling beautiful gifts, homeware, books, confectionery and much more! But it’s not just a shopping destination. Keep a close eye on their calendar, as the Piece Hall hosts a number of exciting and diverse events throughout the year, including performances from a range of different artists.

And if you’re looking to catch a West End performance, then there’s no need to travel any further than 15 minutes away from Cleckheaton. Bradford’s cultural centre since 1914, the Alhambra Theatre is a historic venue which brings the very best in live entertainment and has staged many major West End shows.

Food and drink in Cleckheaton

There’s plenty of places to choose from when it comes to eating and drinking in Cleckheaton, with a variety of cafes, takeaways and restaurants to choose from. Tappinos serves Italian small plates, with a fresh and ever changing menu. From pizzas, fish dishes, salads and much more to choose from, the restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere with attentive and friendly customer service. Established in 1983 and still going strong, Aldo’s Pizzeria serves up fresh, authentic Italian food. You’ll find all the classics on their menu, as well as their own signature dishes. And if it’s Chinese cuisine you’re looking for, Wok Ever Palace brings a contemporary feel to Chinese dining and is a firm favourite with the locals.

Just a 15 minute journey from Cleckheaton, you’ll find Shibden Mill Inn. Tucked away in the beautiful Shibden Valley, you’ll find an award winning restaurant offering a first class dining experience. With dishes for all occasions made with produce from local and specialist suppliers, there’s also an extensive wine and drinks list which features gins, whiskeys and beers. Set against a backdrop of open fires and cosy bar, it’s well worth a visit!

Image: Shibden Mill Inn via Facebook

So if you’re thinking of making the move to this delightful Yorkshire town, then avoid the disappointment of missing out and book a viewing to come and visit one of our beautifully designed homes at Verve today.

With plenty happening in the town itself and even more to explore and enjoy beyond thanks to its fantastic location in the Spen Valley, it’s the ideal place to call home.