What's On In April

Spring is well and truly here as April begins in the Bradford district. Amid sunny days, wonderful flowers, and colourful Easter eggs, there are adventures aplenty to enjoy. Take a look below to discover just a few of the highlights coming up this month.

Start the month with a visit to the new exhibition at the South Square Centre in Thornton, running from 3rd April–24th May. Townscapes brings the district’s architectural character to life through beautifully detailed drawings, inviting visitors to appreciate familiar streets and buildings from a fresh, artistic perspective.

Football fans can head to Darley Street Market on 3rd, 11th and 25th April for Bantams in the Courtyard Fanzone, where Bradford City supporters can enjoy family activities, music, and a lively match‑day atmosphere ahead of each home game.

Join the Easter fun at the Shipley Glen Tramway from 3rd–6th April. Youngsters will love spotting hidden chicks and bunnies, colouring and other activities at this ever‑popular heritage attraction. You can also hop over to other Easter events across the district, including trails at East Riddlesden Hall, family fun and seasonal activities at Bradford Museums & Galleries — discover more Easter fun around the district here.

Discover extinct and endangered creatures by following a trail through Cliffe Castle Museum in Keighley on 7th April. This free family event is packed with fascinating facts and hands‑on moments, giving young explorers plenty to enjoy before heading off to discover the rest of the museum and its beautiful grounds. It’s a great way to spark imaginations and spend a day together.

Meet the incredible artists Brian and Wendy Froud at West Baptist Lane Chapel in Haworth on Saturday, 11th April. They’ll be discussing the inspirations and world‑building behind their work, which influenced iconic films Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal.

See the latest works by the Redbrick Artists at Ilkley Manor House from 11th–26th April. The new pieces explore connections with the natural world, plants and landscapes, showcasing a mix of styles and techniques that highlight the group’s creative range. Visitors can enjoy a thoughtful collection that reflects the changing season and the artists’ shared love of the outdoors.

Film fans can also enjoy a special screening of Cinerama: Search for Paradise on Saturday, 12th April at the National Science and Media Museum, complete with a behind‑the‑scenes Projection Room Tour for a rare look at how this unique format comes to life.

Get active in the fresh air on Wednesday, 15th April, by joining the monthly guided walk setting off from NT East Riddlesden Hall in Keighley. Led by knowledgeable volunteers, the route takes you through peaceful countryside paths and offers the chance to uncover some of the area’s wonderful sights. Book your free place today and enjoy a refreshing mid‑week escape outdoors.

Raise your glass at the Haworth Beer Festival, returning to the Old School Room from 17th–19th April. Enjoy a great selection of craft ales, tasty street food and a programme of live music in this much‑loved community setting. It’s a relaxed and welcoming weekend for anyone who enjoys good beer and good company — book your tickets now.

Choose your champion for the Great Ilkley Duck Race on Saturday, 18th April. Hundreds of rubber ducks will set off from New Brook Street Bridge, but only one will be crowned champion. Purchase your little yellow racer and cheer them on.

Celebrate World Heritage Day in Roberts Park, Saltaire, on Saturday, 18th April. This special event marks 25 years of Saltaire’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with falconry displays, a dog show, dancers, stalls and plenty more to enjoy throughout the day. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the village’s heritage, community spirit and riverside charm in one memorable celebration.

Visit Bolling Hall in Bradford on Sunday, 26th April, for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Plant bulbs, take a tour of the historic hall, or enjoy story time in the library. There’s plenty of fun for youngsters on this flower‑filled day out.

April also brings a packed programme to Bradford’s theatres and music venues. Musicals take centre stage at the Alhambra Theatre with Operation Mincemeat and Waitress. Bradford Arts Centre presents the powerful dance performance You and Us, while Bradford Live welcomes street‑dance superstars Diversity: Soul. It's ladies night asSt George’s Hall with Thunder From Down Under and Bingley Arts Centre explores motivation and modern life in the new play Tapped.

Music fans can enjoy Imagine Lennon at King’s Hall in Ilkley, Northern Live’s 11‑piece band at St George’s Hall in Bradford, Robbie Cavanagh at The Live Room in Saltaire and a special event at St Michael’s and All Angels Church in Haworth, where Guiem Soldevila performs music inspired by the Brontës. Plumhall returns to Black Dyke Mills in Queensbury and the Hooliemen bring Irish folk to Ilkley Playhouse.

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Enjoy your time in the Bradford district and don’t forget to tag @visitbradford #VisitBradford in your photos.

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