With Bradford crowned UK City of Culture 2025, the district is buzzing with energy, creativity and celebration. From literary legends to tennis tournaments, anarchist music festivals to artisan food markets, there’s something for every kind of explorer. Here’s your round-up of what not to miss in Bradford this June and beyond.
📚 Bradford Literature Festival
27 June – 6 July
The Bradford Literature Festival returns with ten days of debate, storytelling, and inspiration. From John Cooper Clarke’s iconic poetry to Grace Dent’s cultural commentary, and Hamza Yusuf’s powerful perspectives, this year’s lineup is as diverse as the city itself. There’s something for all ages with family events, writing workshops, and more — all against the backdrop of Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations.
🎟️ Explore the full programme and book tickets
🏛️ Museums Week in Full Swing
Ongoing through 7 June
Celebrate Museums Week by stepping into history across the district. Explore the Brontë legacy at Haworth, Victorian elegance at Cliffe Castle, industrial heritage at Bradford Industrial Museum, or Civil War intrigue at Bolling Hall. There’s no better time to rediscover these Yorkshire gems.
🎾 Game, Set, Ilkley!
8 – 15 June | Ilkley Lawn Tennis & Squash Club
The Lexus Ilkley Trophy brings world-class tennis to the Yorkshire Dales — but it’s not just about the sport. Beyond the Baseline adds live music magic with acts like Scouting for Girls, Chris Moyles’ 90s Hangover, and a full-on Ibiza Orchestra experience. Sport and sound, all in one place.
🍕 Darley Street Market Sneak Peek
Grand Opening: 12–13 July
Get your first taste of Bradford’s brand-new Darley Street Market, a vibrant food and drink destination in the heart of the city. Traders already announced include Pizzeria Il Forno, BabTooma, Northern Monk, and Jake’s Bakehouse.
🎶 New Music Biennial Comes to Bradford
6 – 8 June | Multiple Venues
Experience the cutting edge of UK music at this free three-day festival. With venues including Bradford Cathedral and St George’s Hall, the New Music Biennial features 20 dynamic pieces from leading composers. Bradford audiences will hear new works before they premiere in London.
📅 Mark Your Diary — Upcoming Highlights
- 23–28 June: The Girl on the Train – Keighley Playhouse
- 27 June: Celebrating Branwell Brontë – Brontë Parsonage Museum, Haworth
- 28–29 June: Bradford Dragon Boat Festival – Roberts Park, Saltaire
- 28 June: Ilkley Pride – King’s Hall & Winter Garden
- 28 June: PhotoFutures: Photography & Sustainability – Impressions Gallery, Bradford
Whether you’re into literature, live music, tennis, food, or local heritage, Bradford is the place to be this summer. Dive into City of Culture 2025 and see Yorkshire at its most dynamic.
