10 Things to Do with an Elderly Parent in Huddersfield

Huddersfield has much to offer different generations looking for an enjoyable day out. Whether you prefer strolling through parks with the grandchildren, a bit of retail therapy, or visiting historic surroundings, you’ll find that the area caters for everyone.
Here are 10 ways to enjoy Huddersfield.

Take a Gentle Walk Through Greenhead Park

Greenhead Park has much to recommend it for an enjoyable experience. Fully restored to its former glory, the park is close to Huddersfield town centre and easy to reach by public transport. There are several play areas for children, places to sit, as well as areas for picnics, and two cafés to relax and enjoy some refreshment. A bandstand hosts regular events, and the ornamental lake houses much wildlife.

Visit the Tolson Museum and Ravensknowle Park

Tolson Museum is set in Ravensknowle Park and is well worth a visit. The museum paints a vivid picture of Huddersfield through its history, with Roman artefacts, textiles, wildlife and transport presented. The area has something for all ages too, as the park itself contains a children’s playground, refreshments, and a gift shop. Entry is free.

Relax in the Peaceful Surroundings of Beaumont Park

A gift from wealthy local landowner Henry Frederick Beaumont in 1879, the 20 acres of woodland and fields were transformed into the area’s first public park. The land offered exceptional views to the Holme Valley, and a new road was built to allow visitors better access. Skilled stonemasons constructed much for the park and their work can still be seen today in the form of grottos and other ornate features.

Explore Huddersfield Railway Station Architecture

Recently renovated, Huddersfield Railway Station has a splendid Grade I listed frontage, Euston-style roof and Victorian tearoom. The Manchester and Leeds railway finally made it to Huddersfield in 1847, with the building of 47 spans of quarry-faced arches. The subsequent decades have seen enlargement and strengthening work taking place, but the original features have been sympathetically preserved.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at a Traditional Huddersfield Café

Huddersfield has a plethora of local cafes ready to serve you and the family with hot and cold food, cakes, and afternoon tea. Voted on Tripadvisor as Huddersfield’s best café, The Thirsty Gardener Café offers Gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options, served throughout the day. The Northern Tea House is a vintage location which offers a variety of teas, coffees, bistro-style sandwiches, plus a selection of cakes and cream teas.

Browse the Shops at Kingsgate Shopping Centre

“Everything you need, all in one place” their website claims, and seeing the array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, they may just be right! National chains jostle with local independents to ensure a great day of retail therapy and refreshment for all the family. Browse the books in Waterstones, find a bargain in TK Maxx, or stock up on essentials in Boots, there’s truly everything you need.

Discover Local History at Colne Valley Museum

A living history museum, with volunteers in costume demonstrating the skills of yesteryear, Colne Valley Museum is a delight for visitors of all ages. The museum will take you back to about 1840, when handloom weavers inhabited the cottages. They would’ve worked as spinners, weavers, and cloggers, and all of these skills are on display when you visit.

Take a Scenic Walk Along Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Beginning at the rear of the University of Huddersfield, the canal runs for just under 20 miles, utilising 74 locks and the Standedge Tunnel to cross the Pennines. After being derelict for 50 years, it now houses boats and visitors throughout the year, thanks to the efforts of local people. Expansive moorland and interesting walks wait for visitors, as well as cycling, paddle sports, and the Watersedge Coffee House.

Visit Huddersfield Parish Church (St Peter’s)

St Peter’s is a diverse church with a long history; worship has been undertaken here for hundreds of years. With a full programme of Sunday services plus other events throughout the calendar, the church is at the centre of Christian faith in the area. Legend says that Walter de Lacy had the church built around 1090-1100, after his family came to England with William the Conqueror.

Enjoy the views from Castle Hill

Enjoy stunning views from Castle Hill and climb Victoria Tower if you feel energetic. Completed in 1899 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s reign, Victoria Tower is regularly open to the public. Castle Hill has a history spanning more than 4000 years. Originally an Iron Age hill fort, there was a castle there in the Middle Ages, of which the well remains. There are also many wildlife habitats, and the area is designated as a Local Nature Reserve.