Ilkley

Ilkley is situated on the banks of the River Wharf in the Yorkshire Dales. In the 1840′s the spring waters in Ilkley were discovered to have medicinal properties and the town slowly grew into a health spa for the rich. Tourism has been the economical mainstay for Ilkley, having grown mainly since the early spa days. Architecturally, it a Victorian town, but it does have a fine selection of older buildings All Saints Church has its origins in Anglo-Saxon times with additions and changes throughout the centuries, including a 13th century embellished doorway and a 15th century tower. For history lovers, many bronze-age carvings have been found in the area. A popular walk leads west up the valley to Heber’s Ghyll to see the ancient Swastika Stone, the only ancient stone of its kind found in Britain. Ilkley has a lot to offer. It holds a famous Literary Festival, the nature walks are relaxing and educational and if you love to shop, The Grove and Brook Street is famous for its retailers of every fancy.

Situated in the Wharfe Valley, the spa town of Ilkley is surrounded by glorious countryside. The southern slopes of the valley form Ilkley Moor, immortalised in Yorkshire’s anthem – On Ilkla Moor baht’at. Prehistoric man lived on the moors and left behind stone circles and hundreds of rock carvings, including the famous Swastika Stone. Nowadays walkers and nature lovers have unlimited access to enjoy the spectacular views across Wharfedale. There is a permanent orienteering course and opportunities for rock climbing on the Cow and Calf Rocks and in Rocky Valley. Here at Ilkley Directory we aim to provide the highest quality directory of service. We cover everything from the best drinking holes to top quality walking routes in the famous Ilkley Moors. We also cover the surrounding villages including Menston and Burley.