Shop & sip

Shops, cafés and restaurants

Ilkley is known for a strong line-up of independent shops and places to eat, in a handsome Victorian setting.

Businesses open, close and change hands. This page is a general overview, not a directory, and inclusion is not an endorsement. Listings may change, so check before you visit.

The Grove

The Grove is Ilkley's elegant main shopping street, lined with Victorian buildings, many with ornate glass and iron canopies over the pavement. It's home to a mix of fashion boutiques, gift shops, galleries, bookshops and cafés, plus a few familiar national names. The nearby Promenade gardens make a pleasant spot to pause. For wider visitor information see Visit Bradford.

Bettys Café Tea Rooms

Bettys, the Yorkshire family firm founded in Harrogate in 1919, has a branch on The Grove. It's famous for afternoon tea, Yorkshire Fat Rascals and cakes, and there's a shop counter for takeaways. Queues are common at busy times.

Independent shops

Beyond The Grove, streets such as Brook Street, Church Street and the smaller lanes and arcades hold independent delis, butchers, bakers, florists, homeware shops and outdoor gear specialists (handy before a moor walk; see also our walking gear and advice link).

Market days

There are regular market stalls in the town centre, traditionally including a Friday market in the area around the station and town centre, plus periodic farmers' and craft markets. Days and locations can change, so check locally.

Eating out

You'll find everything from coffee shops and bakeries to traditional pubs, gastropubs and a range of restaurants and cuisines. Near the Cow and Calf there's a pub-restaurant that's popular with walkers, and White Wells serves simple refreshments when it's open.

Places to stay

Ilkley has hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and self-catering cottages. Browse places to stay in Yorkshire.