Hang out at this central urban park, home to green spaces, a spray pool, family-friendly festivals and a Venetian Gothic masterpiece.
Bradford City Park blends history with entertainment in the heart of Bradford city center. Completed as part of a city regeneration program, Bradford City Park was awarded The Great Place Award 2013 by The Academy of Urbanism. Relax on grassy lawns, visit an architectural wonder, have fun in a splash pad and be part of varied cultural events. Mingle with the young and old, tourists, students and office workers that frequent the park on a daily basis.
The Venetian Gothic architecture of Bradford City Hall dominates the east side of the park. Gaze up at its 220-feet (67-meter) bell tower and spot a series of statues that depict British monarchs. Peek inside luxurious council chambers, halls and meeting rooms on Heritage Open Days. Uncover the evolution of policing and criminal justice in the city from the 1800s onward at the Bradford Police Museum, located inside the City Hall.
In front of City Hall is the Mirror Pool, which fills up gradually throughout the day via 100 fountains and a 100 feet (30 meter) water cannon. Cross the pool along the raised walkways or kick off your shoes and run between the fountains. On sunny days City Hall reflects perfectly in the pool. A light show takes place at dusk every day.
A broad esplanade punctuated by grass sections surrounds the pool. Join the businesspeople and students relaxing on the lawns. Find an art gallery, coffee shop and restaurants at the Centenary Square leisure complex.
Free events take place throughout the year at the park. July’s Bradford Festival is a celebration of the city’s street theater, dance and music culture. In August, vintage cars and motorcycles take over the park for the Bradford Classic Car Show.
Bradford City Park is a short walk from the city’s main transportation terminals, Bradford Interchange and Bradford Foster Square. The nearest metered car parks are on Hall Ings road and at The Broadway Bradford shopping mall.
