Ilkley Riverside & Park

While many visitors are drawn to the rugged heights of Ilkley Moor, Ilkley Riverside Gardens offers a gentler, more tranquil alternative. Nestled along the banks of the River Wharfe, this green expanse has been a cornerstone of local leisure since the early 20th century, serving as both a family playground and the prestigious starting point for one of Britain’s great walks.

The Heart of Family Fun

The Riverside is the town’s premier spot for family recreation. The centrepiece is the large, recently renovated playground, which features modern equipment like the “WharfeWave” rope swing and climbing structures designed to mimic the nearby moorland rocks.

Just a few steps away, the river itself provides endless entertainment. During the summer, the “pebble beaches” on the riverbank become hubs for:

• Feeding the ducks and swans (a generations-old local tradition).
• Stone skimming in the shallower parts of the Wharfe.
• Picnicking on the wide, flat lawns that offer plenty of space even on busy bank holidays.

A Walker’s Paradise

The park is geographically significant as the official start of the Dales Way, an 80-mile long-distance footpath ending in the Lake District. You will often see hikers with heavy packs taking their “starting line” photos near the Old Bridge.

For those looking for a shorter stroll, the Riverside Circular Walk is a classic. It’s a flat, 1.7-mile loop that takes you:

• Across the Old Bridge, a 17th-century stone bridge.
• Along the north bank with views of the Ilkley Lido.
• Back over the river via the Suspension Bridge, which provides a slightly “bouncy” and scenic crossing.
• Refreshments and Views

No trip to the riverside is complete without a stop at the Riverside Hotel. While it offers a full pub menu inside, its outdoor “Kabin” is a local institution, serving takeaway fish and chips, artisan pizzas, and ice cream that can be enjoyed on the park benches overlooking the water.

Essential Visitor Info

Location: Just a 5-minute walk from the town centre (heading down Brook Street).

Parking: There is a dedicated Riverside car park, but it fills up very quickly. On-street parking is available along Denton Road on the opposite side of the river.

Accessibility: The paths are wide and well-paved, making the entire riverside area ideal for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and prams.