New Bradford Trail Unveils Hidden Natural Beauty

Launching on September 19, 2026, the Bradford Pennine Gateway Trail offers an 18-mile exploration of West Yorkshire's natural and industrial heritage. The trail connects the towns of Ilkley, Saltaire, and Haworth, passing through the newly established Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve. This reserve, a first for West Yorkshire, underscores the area's rich biodiversity and its role in addressing climate challenges.

The journey begins in Ilkley, ascending Rombalds Moor, which encompasses Ilkley, Burley, and Bingley moors. This landscape features heather, bracken, and peat bogs, alongside significant historical sites like old coal extraction pits and wartime training areas. The trail showcases the ecological importance of these moors, which are vital for tackling climate change, floods, and wildfires.

Shipley Glen, a historic ravine near Saltaire, offers a picturesque break with its Victorian-era amusements and operational tramway. From here, the trail continues to Haworth, passing through nature-rich spots like Trench Meadows, an SSSI known for its grasses and wildflowers, and the Leeds-Liverpool canal locks near Bingley.

Designed by Danny Jackson, former countryside manager for Bradford Council, the trail aims to redefine views of Bradford, highlighting its extensive rural areas. The initiative also focuses on maximizing environmental benefits such as improved air quality, carbon capture, and flood reduction, alongside promoting outdoor health.