Wakefield is a truly one-of-a-kind Yorkshire city on account of its intriguing mix of cultural attractions, relaxing outdoor attractions, and deep history.
 

Wakefield was home to the Angles, Vikings, then Normans, who built castles nearby at Sandal and Lawe Hill. It was the site of the Battle of Wakefield during the Wars of the Roses in 1460, after which it blossomed on the back of the coal mining industry and the trade of wool and grain. You can learn more about the city’s past at the National Coal Mining Museum and Wakefield Museum.
 

This long history can be seen in city’s beautiful architecture. Wakefield Cathedral, the spire of which is the largest structure in the city, dates to the 1300s, and the Town Hall, Crown Court, and viaduct are all living reminders of the town’s 1800s prominence. 
 

The city’s beauty has provided inspiration for all manner of artists, most recently the internationally famous sculptors Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore, whose brilliant works you can view at The Hepworth Wakefield, and Yorkshire Sculpture Park, respectively.
 

Leafy Wakefield has plenty of parks to choose from too – perfect for an afternoon in nature with the family. There’s Angler’s Country Park, Pugney’s Country Park, Newmillerdam Country Park, Nostell Priory and Parkland, Haw Park Wood, Thornes Park, and Hemsworth Water Park and Playworld. 
 

For a more metropolitan day out in the city centre, there are plenty of shops to browse, as well as great places to grab a bite to eat. The city even has its own Rhubarb Festival in February, Wakefield being one corner (alongside Morley and Rothwell) of the Rhubarb Triangle!