Ilkley itself is a historical Victorian spa town which has retained its charm with quaint shops and hosts the famous Bettys teashop. It has its origins in the Roman outpost of Olicana, but developed itself most in the 19th century when the benefits of its water were discovered.

"The pure, clear and sparling liquid that gushes from Ilkley Hills is not less exhilirating and is much more wholesome, than manufactured champagne..." Capt. J.K. Lukis, 'Common Sense of the Water Cure', 1856.

It is situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales national park and provides breathtaking views of the traditional Yorkshire rural landscapes. Two long distance walks, the Dales Way and the Ebor Way, begin and end in Ilkley. The river Wharfe flows through the town and offers walks along its banks through the Riverside Gardens and stepping-stones for the brave to cross. Middleton Woods on the far side of the river offer 90 acres of woodland to enjoy. Ilkley's tracks and trails are a challenge to walkers and cyclists alike, but for the young and less able there are plenty of equally enjoyable but less demanding routes! Further details about Ilkley can be found on the Visit Bah Tat website.

Golf plays a major role in the area's sporting itinerary with three fine courses locally including one of the country's most picturesque courses at Ilkley Golf Club where life members include Mark James and Colin Montgomerie.

Tennis is also available in the town at the Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club, recently visited by Tim Henman. It hosts a yearly tournament.

Horse and pony enthusiats can revel in their hobby with many trekking establishments nearby. Just let us know and we can arrange it for you.

Ikley is also at the foot of the famous Cow and Calf landmark, a set of rocks on Ilkley Moor, which attracts many sightseers and climbers. The beauty and location of Ilkley Moor inspired the old English song “On Ilkla Moor Baht’At!”. Along the moor you can find several primitive landmarks like the Swastika Stone and the remains of a circle of standing stones. White Wells is a popular resting point to enjoy the healing icy waters and hot tea on offer. It is open whenever you can see the flag flying above the house.

From our room, you can walk onto Ilkley moor within 10 minutes, and be at the foot of the Cow & Calf Rocks within 15 minutes. We are ideally located for walkers and cyclists who enjoy the outdoor activities yet want all the home comforts a B&B can offer.

In the warmer months (end of May to early September) Ilkley's Lido offers you a taste of leisure from bygone times. The lagoon-shaped pool is a rare survivor from the 1930s, the golden age of outdoor swimming pools. The main covered pool is open all year round.

Ilkley Toy Museum displays a fine private collection of toys and games from 350BC to current memory. A highlight is the 1940s working model of a fairground and it is impossible to resist the charms of the teddy bears and winsome dolls. The collection is also strong on TV tie-ins, prompting many nostalgia trips amongst visitors.

Not far from Ilkey train enthusiasts will find the Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway which passes through the lovely Wharfedale countryside.

The Bolton Abbey estate has shops and cafes as well as walks by the ruins and the river or on 80 miles of footpaths. As well as teh twelth-century priory there are the ruins of Barden Tower, a medieval fortified house. Day fishing permits are also available.

On a similar theme, Denton Hall (which you can see across the vally from our drive) can offer a wide variety of simulated game shooting packages offering the thrill of the traditional game shoot without the traditional cost. We can provide further details for you.

In the opposite direction, near Bradford is Saltaire. The Salts Mill complex has been restored and houses amongst wonderful shops the David Hockney Gallery, only permanent exhibition of the artist in the UK. The whole village was built by Sir Titus Salt and is now a Unesco World Heritage site.

In Bradford itself you will find the National Media Museum, well worth a visit. It also has an Imax cinema as well as a traditional cinema (Pictureville).

Leeds is a very lively city with plenty to do all day and night long! Shopping is renowned, from top chains including Harvey Nichols to designer and vintage boutiques in the Corn Exchange. Its markets are worth a visit if you are a food enthusiast. It is easily accessible by train from our B&B.

With so much on offer, you are bound to have a memorable time during a stay with us!