INTRODUCTION
Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, Wakefield is a city full of history, culture and it’s own unique heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone in search of a vibrant community, Wakefield has its arms wide open waiting for you.
Let’s dive into what makes Wakefield truly famous!
a historical background
Wakefield has a rich history, with evidence of settlers being found as early as pre-historic times. The city has been controlled by the Romans, the Angles, the Vikings, the Saxons, the Normans… the list goes on! The War of the Roses in 1460 saw the Battle of Wakefield fought close by to the city at the nearby Sandal Castle.
In Medieval times the River Calder was established as a well known port for the woollen and tanning trades, which continued until after the industrial revolution. Wakefield had quite a diverse economy at this time, being home to a cattle market (one of the largest in the country), steam-powered wool-spinning mills, coal mining, brickyards and soap works!
The Rutland Mills from this period have recently been renovated as part of the Tileyard North complex, located by the side of the River Calder (and home to our coworking & private office space)!
These mills are far from the only historic architecture in the city however. Chantry Bridge (sometimes called Wakefield Bridge) dates back to the mid 1300’s, and is still in use today. Wakefield Cathedral was originally built as a church, also in the 1300’s, and was crucial in the former town gaining city status in 1988. It actually has the tallest spire in Yorkshire, at 75m tall!
The Hepworth Gallery, with Tileyard North in the background
CULTURUAL HERITAGE
Wakefield is home to the Hepworth Gallery, a beacon of contemporary art named after the renowned sculptor Barbara Hepworth. This museum is not just an art repository but a source of inspiration, showcasing works by Hepworth alongside other luminary artists. Located a stone’s throw from Tileyard North on the bank of the River Calder, the Hepworth is home to a cafe, shop, and some lovely outdoor gardens!
The Hepworth isn’t the only art-themed location that makes Wakefield famous. The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an open-air and indoor gallery, occupying the 500-acre parkland of Bretton Hall. Opening in 1977, it houses an ever-changing collection of sculptures from some of the UK’s most famous sculptors including Henry Moore and Andy Goldsworthy , and is definitely a most visit in the area!
The Theatre Royal Wakefield, designed by the famous architect Frank Matcham, has been a centre for performing arts since the late 19th century. It offers a rich program of drama, music, and dance, and contributes to the city’s vibrant cultural life.
THE RHUBARB TRIANGLE
We couldn’t write an article about Wakefield without mentioning rhubarb. We’re surprised it’s taken us this long!
Wakefield sits within the ‘Rhubarb Triangle’ (no seriously, Google it), an area in which the unique growing conditions allow for the production of some of the world’s finest rhubarb, especially noted for its vibrant colour and intense flavour. This flavour comes from the traditional method of ‘forcing’ rhubarb in dark sheds during the cold winter months.
Each year, this agricultural legacy is celebrated with the Wakefield Rhubarb Festival, a celebration of local food, drink, and crafts. It features everything from cooking demonstrations by top chefs who reveal the versatility of rhubarb in both sweet and savoury dishes, to tours of the rhubarb forcing sheds, giving visitors a unique insight into this peculiar farming technique. The festival also highlights the impact of rhubarb on the local economy and culture, incorporating music, dance, and street entertainment that make it a vibrant community event.
This enduring affection for rhubarb encapsulates a broader appreciation for the region’s history and its capacity to adapt and thrive, making it a true hallmark of Wakefield’s identity!
Discovering Wakefield from 2-Work at Tileyard North
At 2-Work @ Tileyard North, right across from The Hepworth Wakefield, we offer so much more than just coworking and private office spaces. We’re your doorway to everything great about Wakefield, nestled in the heart of a bustling creative and professional community. Whether you’re kicking off a new business, eager to make connections, or in search of a place that sparks your creativity, we’re here with open arms.
Wakefield is not just a city of landmarks, but a city alive with stories, art, history, and community spirit. At 2-Work, we invite you to come and be a part of it all. Let’s create, connect, and make history together!
