Bradford is this years UK City of Culture. It has always been one of my favourite day trips but this years events make it even better. Here's my guide.

Saltaire

Anyone who has the questionable fortune of knowing me personally is aware that my love for Saltaire in particular knows no end. 

How fortunate we are to have a unesco world heritage site right on our doorstep. I find wandering around the model village that Titus created for his workforce inspiring.

Tambourine Coffee Is my coffee shop of choice whenever I'm heading in this direction.

In my career I was fortunate to play cricket for Saltaire CC. Our home games taking place in Roberts Park, the park that Titus Salt created for his workforce. I have such fond memories of playing here and it was a fundamental part of my journey back into the professional game.

Salts Mill

There's just something calming about the vastness of the spaces inside the mill. I find it slows me down and makes me want to stop. Often I'll sit in a corner and journal. 

The architecture provides the backdrop for incredible art. Bradford born David Hockneys work always adorns the walls. One of Britains most influential artists open and accessible to everyone. Incredible.

Keighley and Worth Valley Railway

The Keighley and worth valley railway has been a staple day trip for my family. Led by my dad's enthusiasm, he appears to have indoctrinated all of his six sons. We celebrated my Dads 70th and my elder brothers 50th by hiring out an entire carriage.

Last Christmas we  enjoyed performances of A Christmas Carol and this year as part of the Uks city of culture festivities a wonderful production of The Railway Children. The tickets incorporating both the theatre production in the reimagined sidings shed at Oxenhope station and a trip on a steam train. If any of you or your family are rail enthusiasts it is well worth the price tag.

Cartwright hall

Cartwright hall is a real hidden gem in Bradford (well perhaps not now) There is a wonderful parkrun (Lister Park) in the grounds on a Saturday morning. The park is worth the trip itself.

The art exhibitions are wonderful here. It's also  another home for priceless David Hockney work. This year it's exhibiting The Turner Prize winners! How often are we going to get the turner prize in Bradford. Do not miss this opportunity.

Bradford City Centre

The mirror pool in the city centre is a photographers dream. Yes I got on my hands and knees to get this one. Its also a wonderful meeting point, at lunch times especially it is awash with people (including one of my bros) A brilliant spot to people watch.

Waterstones in the wool exchange

Originally the venue to trade wool in the 19th century. It was designed in the Venetian gothic style in order to celebrate Bradfords prowess in the textile industry and to show off the wealth it brought to the city.

If it rains. Head here and grab a good book.

There has never been a better time to visit Bradford.

Enjoy.