Wakefield

Wakefield is a cathedral city with a population of around 100,000, which is located on the River Calder around 14.5km (9 miles) south of Leeds.

The city has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times and in the 15th century, the Battle of Wakefield took place here as part of the War of the Roses. Like many other cities in the north of England, Wakefield experienced a boom during the Industrial Revolution and grew to become a major part of the West Yorkshire urban area.

The Hepworth Wakefield art gallery is the city’s main attraction and many visitors to the gallery also visit the Yorkshire Sculpture Park in the countryside southwest of the city.

The city lies at one of the corners of the Rhubarb Triangle and it hosts a rhubarb festival every February.

Coming and going

Although not quite as well connected as Leeds or York, Wakefield has excellent transport connections with frequent rail and bus services within West Yorkshire plus direct trains to London.

It has two main railway stations, Wakefield Westgate and Wakefield Kirkgate. Although both have long-distance trains, Westgate station is by far the busier of the two.

Sights and activities in Wakefield

Places to stay in Wakefield