Explore Halifax - Food, Events & Things to Do in West Yorkshire
Halifax is a town in West Yorkshire, governed by Calderdale Council. With a population of around 104,000, it is known for its rich industrial heritage and iconic Piece Hall. As a former hub of wool production, Halifax continues to be a significant cultural and economic center in the region.
Halifax is a vibrant town that beautifully marries its rich industrial past with modern culture. At the heart of the town lies the iconic Piece Hall, a stunning 18th-century structure that was once a bustling marketplace for wool traders, now transformed into a lively hub for arts, crafts, and events. Another highlight is the magnificent Wainhouse Tower, the tallest folly in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the historic Halifax Minster, a 12th-century church dedicated to St John the Baptist, which showcases the town's architectural heritage.
With an impressive selection of activities, including over 117 things to do, Halifax invites you to delve into its unique offerings. Whether you're interested in shopping, local history, or enjoying the diverse culinary scene, the town has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience all that Halifax has to offer by checking out our listings for things to do in Halifax.
Stay in Halifax
Ploughcroft Cottage
Causeway House
Causeway House offers comfortable serviced apartments in central Halifax, providing a convenient base for exploring the town.
Grey Stone Studio Apartments
Mozart House - B&B Halifax
Mozart House offers a comfortable and welcoming B&B experience, providing a convenient base for exploring Halifax.
Halifax Gorgeous New Home - 3 bedrooms
1885 the Venue - Pub, Restaurant, Rooms & Function House
Things to Do in Halifax
Halifax Viewpoint
Discover Halifax Viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Halifax from its elevated position on Southowram Bank.
Hot tub house Yorkshire
Transform your outdoor space with premium hot tubs and spas from this highly-rated Yorkshire supplier and installer.
New Bond Street Park
Discover New Bond Street Park, a tranquil, clean, and wheelchair-accessible urban oasis tucked away in the heart of Halifax.
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Food & Drink
AL Nisar
AL Nisar in Halifax offers a highly-rated takeaway experience, serving up delicious pizzas, burgers, and chicken dishes seasoned to perfection.
Booze Pharma-C Ltd
Booze Pharma-C Ltd in Halifax is a 4-star rated off-license, providing drinks, tobacco, and vapes with convenient late hours.
Eight Sixteen Coffee Co. Ltd.
Discover Eight Sixteen Coffee Co. in Halifax, highly rated for its delicious breakfasts, brunch, and lunch, with friendly service.
Interactive Map
View accommodation, attractions, restaurants, and events on the map
Geographic Facts
This town is geographically within the following regions:
- Population
- 104,100
- Area
- 20.73 km²
- Administrative area
- Calderdale
- Dialing code
- 01422
- Timezone
- UTC±00:00
Data sourced from Wikidata and verified public records
Upcoming Events in Halifax
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Latest news from Halifax
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Calderdale Royal Hospital Introduces Disney-Themed MRI Scanners for Children
Calderdale Royal Hospital has introduced Disney-themed MRI scanners, easing anxiety for children during scans. This innovative approach enhances comfort and efficiency in healthcare.
FC Halifax Town Announces Manager Adam Lakeland's Departure to Morecambe FC
FC Halifax Town faces a pivotal moment as Manager Adam Lakeland departs for Morecambe FC. The club seeks a new leader to build on last season's success.
New Race to Take Place Through Dean Clough and Other Historic Buildings in Halifax
Halifax hosts the UK's first Urban Trail race this Easter Monday! 500 runners will race through historic buildings like the Piece Hall and Dean Clough.
The Blueprint for Urban Regeneration: Dean Clough Announces Year-End Occupancy Increase and Positive Outlook
Halifax's historic Dean Clough is thriving. With commercial space occupancy soaring and footfall up 37%, find out why this Yorkshire hub is a top destination.
Walkshire in Halifax
More Walks in Halifax →
Walk: Halifax Canal Circular Walk
Explore the historic wool town of Halifax with this amazing circular walk that takes in the canal and woodlands to the south of the town centre. The Route what3words for start point: ///lists.baked.cloud Start Point: Halifax Finish Point: Halifax Distance: 9 Miles GPX Route Map halifaxDownload Walk Description Embark on a journey from the heart of Halifax, starting near the iconic Piece Hall, just a stone's throw from the train station, where the town's rich industrial saga comes alive. Set out along the Hebble Trail to connect with the Halifax arm of the Calder and Hebble Navigation, the lifeblood of Georgian trade as the flames of the Industrial Revolution first sparked. Navigate your way along the historic canal path, heading towards the picturesque vistas of Elland and the enchanting Elland Woods, famed for their carpet of bluebells come spring. As you approach Brighouse, take a scenic detour across the river to join the Calderdale Way. Your return trip unfurls on the opposite bank, offering fresh perspectives back towards Halifax. Upon your urban re-entry, the Piece Hall awaits, inviting you to indulge in the culinary delights of its exceptional cafes, the perfect epilogue to your historical exploration.
Walk: Calder Valley Greenway - Hebden Bridge to Brighouse
This pretty, relaxed walk along Sustrans’ National Cycle Route 66 is perfect for a blustery, colourful late autumn day. The Route What3Words for start point: ///hiring.fruit.tooth Start Point: Hebden Bridge Station Finish Point: Brighouse Station Distance: 9.3 Miles GPX Route Map hebden-bridge-to-brighouseDownload Walk Description This walk follows the historic watercourses of the Rochdale canal and the Calder and Hebble Navigation, winding through characterful industrial towns and imposing hills. Tread in the steps of the former Poet Laureate Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath, who were inspired by this dramatic landscape, with its wild moors and lush native woodlands. As well as watercourses, the route follows the train line, so you can decide where to stop, enjoy a break in one of the many cafes of Mytholmroyd, Sowerby Bridge or Brighouse, and get a train back.
Walk: Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal
Running from Brighouse to Sowerby Bridge this section this is a part river, part canal route that once served the area at the height of the industrial revolution. The Route what3words for start point: ///gravel.assets.live Start Point: Sowerby Bridge Finish Point: Brighouse Distance: 6 Miles GPX Route Map calder-and-hebble-navigation-canalDownload Walk Description This route provides a tranquil repost to the urban centres along it's route. The peaceful nature of this busy walk is it's main attraction as you are transported to a quieter time, compared the to traffic on the streets above. Starting in Sowerby Bridge the route takes you through a the town and then onto some stunning Calder Valley countryside. There is an option to head towards Halifax along the canal to their however this walk continues into Brighouse, another Yorkshire industrial town. Watch out for the various bird and wild life along the canal and make sure you bring your spotting guide!
Walk: Sowerby Bridge to Hebden Bridge
This walk from Sowerby Bridge to Hebden Bridge will take you along the towpath of the Rochdale Canal and you will be surrounded by heritage and panoramic views. The Route what3words for start point: ///bats.begun.clubs Start Point: Sowerby Bridge Wharf Finish Point: Hebden Bridge Distance: 5.5 Miles GPX Route Map sowerbytohebdenDownload Walk Description Sowerby Bridge is where the Calder and Hebble Navigation seamlessly becomes the Rochdale Canal. Start the walk at Sowerby Bridge Wharf, the cobbled basin where the 18th-century canal buildings have been lovingly restored. You will join the Rochdale Canal at Lock 1 and follow it a short distance, past Lock 2 and then cross the road. After crossing the road, you can pick back up the canal and towpath at Tuel Lane Lock. Tuel Lane Lock is the deepest lock on Britain’s canals at 19 ½ ft, and boats can only travel through when lock keepers are present. Leaving Sowerby Bridge behind, you will follow through the leafy Calder Valley with its panoramic views. The next place you come across is Luddenden Foot followed by Brearley where you will see some canal-side cottages and a lock. Continuing along the towpath you will soon enter Mytholmroyd, the birthplace of poet Ted Hughes. As you carry on along the towpath, the quirky town of Hebden Bridge will be in front of you. Entering Hebden Bridge, you will first come across the Marina, then you can choose to explore the town's amazing independent cafes, shops and galleries or return to Sowerby Bridge by train or on foot.
About Halifax, West Yorkshire
Halifax is a town in West Yorkshire, known for its rich industrial heritage and iconic landmarks such as the Piece Hall. With a population of approximately 104,100 residents, it serves as a significant cultural and economic center in the Calderdale area. The town's history as a former hub of wool production continues to shape its identity today.
Where Is Halifax?
Halifax is located in Calderdale, West Yorkshire, nestled in the eastern foothills of the Pennines. It is approximately 9 miles west of Leeds and 10 miles north of Bradford. The town is well-connected, with the A58 and A641 roads providing access to nearby towns such as Huddersfield, just 6 miles to the south.
What Is Halifax Known For?
Halifax is home to the largest workers' co-operative in the UK, Suma Wholefoods, and boasts Britain's oldest nightclub, The Acapulco. The town features several historical landmarks, including the Piece Hall, built in 1779 as a cloth hall for trading wool, and Halifax Minster, which dates back to the 12th century. The town also witnessed the establishment of the Earldom of Halifax in 1677, marking its historical significance.
The History of Halifax
Halifax has a rich history, with its incorporation as a municipal borough occurring in 1848 and later becoming a county borough in 1889. Notable historical events include the Halifax Slasher incident in 1938 and the last use of the gibbet in 1650. Prominent buildings such as the Wainhouse Tower, completed between 1871-1875, further highlight the town's architectural heritage.
Exploring Halifax and Nearby Yorkshire
With over 117 attractions, including the Piece Hall and local museums, there are plenty of things to do in Halifax for visitors. The town also offers a vibrant dining scene, with 192 restaurants and cafes to explore — browse places to eat in Halifax to find your next meal.
Halifax's location makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby areas. The village of Shibden is just 0.9 miles away, while the town of Exley lies 1.8 miles to the east. This proximity to both urban and rural settings enhances the experience of visiting Halifax.
How Far Is Halifax from Leeds?
Halifax is approximately 9 miles west of Leeds, easily reachable by road in about 20 minutes.