National Media Museum
The National Media Museum gives visitors a wonderful immersion into the world of film, photography, cinematography, and television. Home to many recent collections, the museum spans over eight traditional and interactive galleries, each celebrating their media mediums.
An exciting addition to the museum is ‘BBC Bradford’, where visitors can observe presenters and researchers doing what they do best. You’ll also find the first IMAX theatre of its kind to open in the UK, where you can watch the latest and greatest in 3D entertainment, as well as two additional cinemas in Pictureville and Cubby Broccoli. After catching a flick, head down to the Media Café and Pictureville bar to feast on a delicious medley of food and drink, before visiting the Museum Shop, the perfect place to pick up a gift or souvenir.
The National Media Museum is a four minute walk from the Leonardo Hotel Bradford and admission is free.
Bradford Cathedral
Bradford Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, and holds a rich and ancient history. The cathedral, whilst a historic place of worship, is also home to Artspace, a wonderful exhibition of paintings, poetry, music, and literature. A 21st century addition lends a touch of modernity to the building’s grand architecture, making it a ‘must-see’ for any culture enthusiasts.
Bradford Cathedral is free to enter and only a thirteen minute walk from the hotel.
Bradford Industrial Museum
With an enthralling exhibition programme and captivating displays of textile, print, and engineering history, the Bradford Industrial Museum and Moorside House offer an educational experience to museum fans from all over. Enjoy an inspiring immersion into the past as you learn, engage, and gain terrific insight into the industrial side of Bradford. The museum also offers a café and a gift shop to grab a bite and browse a selection of goodies!
The museum is just over ten minutes away from Leonardo Hotel Bradford by car, and admission is free.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery
Bradford’s civic art gallery, Cartwright Hall, offers a riveting line-up of classic and modern art. With various paintings and sculptures from Bradford’s collection in four permanent galleries, the museum houses some of the most refined works of art from 19th and 20th century Britain. You’ll also find a selection of contemporary art from all over the world, including some fantastic, colourful examples of South Asian arts and crafts. End the day with a visit to the café in Lister Park boat house for some food, drink, and ice cream.
With free admission, Cartwright Hall offers visitors a chance to explore the rich artistic history of Britain, as well as Bradford’s own cultural heritage. The Art Gallery can be found in the middle of Lister Park, a ten minute drive from the Leonardo Hotel.
The Impressions Gallery in Bradford opened forty years ago as a pioneer of dedicated camerawork and has been key in changing public perceptions about photography. Thanks to their commitment, the gallery has garnered worldwide status, inspiring pride within the city. Providing continuous support and encouragement to some of the most industrious photographers in the country, the gallery houses exhibitions and workshops of incredible appeal. After enjoying the sights of the museum, head to the gift shop to find collections of photos that you won’t spot anywhere else in the world, or find a place to eat in one of the many restaurants in Centenary Square.
Admission is free and the gallery is just a six minute walk from Leonardo Hotel Bradford.