With a strong industrial past and a thriving multicultural present, Bradford is a city with a fascinating story. It was built on textile wealth - the Industrial Revolution saw it swell from a town of some 6,000 inhabitants to a commercial powerhouse of nearly 200,000. In the 20th century, Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities took root here, bringing a new cultural mix to the landscape of former warehouses and factories. At the time of writing, Bradford has been voted the Curry Capital of Britain six times in a row!
Top of your Bradford to-do list should be the National Media Museum. With an amazing glass facade, the museum charts the story of photography, film, TV, radio and the Internet from their 19th-century beginnings to the modern-day, touching on everything from digital animation to the psychology of advertising.
It's also hugely interactive - you can try your hand at being a newsreader, or get stuck into a treasure trove of classic 80s computer games. If you prefer books to bytes, take a day trip to the Bronte Parsonage Museum, on the western outskirts of the city. It was home to the famous literary sisters, and today acts as both a museum and a contemporary arts centre.
Another good cultural excursion is the world heritage site of Saltaire village, in nearby Shipley. It's home to the famous Salts Mill, which houses several galleries, including displays of work by David Hockney. Back in Bradford, head to City Park, a six-acre park whose water feature has 100 fountains reaching an amazing 30 feet into the air.
And don't miss the chance to catch a Bradford City FC match - they play at Valley Parade in the city centre, just a mile north of Bradford Forster Square station.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main train station in Bradford?
The main train station in Bradford is Bradford Interchange. Check out live arrivals and station facilities for Bradford Interchange.
Which train companies run services to Bradford?
The primary operator of trains to Bradford is Northern.
How do I find cheap tickets to Bradford?
It's easy to bag cheap train tickets to Bradford. We'd recommend using a Railcard, buying your ticket in advance or travelling during Off-Peak hours if you can. Read our cheap train tickets guide to find out more.
Are trains to Bradford running?
There are frequent daily services to Bradford, although there may be fewer services on weekends and bank holidays. Check our live train times for up-to-date information on trains to Bradford.