The northern town named one of the UK’s prettiest with bluebell woods, a brewery and a lido

Ilkley, a charming town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales has been crowned one of the UK’s prettiest towns. The Telegraph ranked it fifth in the country, beating contenders from Cornwall and East Sussex.

The ranking was based on factors such as the attractiveness of shop fronts, historic architecture, low traffic and litter, stunning viewpoints, and abundant greenery, with each town receiving a score out of 50. Ilkley scored an impressive 44/50, earning full marks for its views and greenery, nine out of 10 for shop fronts, eight for historical architecture, and seven for low traffic and litter.

The Telegraph praised Ilkley for its “excellent views”, which are almost guaranteed at every turn due to its location on a slope above the River Wharfe. The town’s “wide and leafy streets”, especially the Grove with its broad pavement, bandstand, cherry trees, and pretty shopfronts, were also commended.

The publication also highlighted Ilkley’s array of independent shops, its stylish cinema, park, brewery, and artisan food market, reports the Manchester Evening News. Ilkley’s claim to fame includes the renowned Betty’s Cafe Tea Rooms, where you can enjoy one of their iconic Fat Rascal fruit scones or choose some handmade chocolates from the confectionary counter.

There’s also the Ilkley Brewery and tap room, with “20+ beer lines, amazing food and music”.

The town’s striking Art Deco lido was hailed by the Telegraph as the Ilkley’s “jewel” and is grade II listed. The original cafe and sun terrace have survived since 1930 and the space boasts unbeatable panoramic views over toward Ilkley Moor.