Farsley is a small village situated between Leeds and Bradford that often goes overlooked.
Drenched in history and industrial heritage, Farsley has a lot to say for itself and is overflowing with things to see and do.
It has a real community feel to it which you can feel almost instantly. The architecture itself, with charming terraces and spectacular mill complexes, is enough to fill your day with wonder. However, there’s so much to soak up and visit in Farsley including superb eateries, lively late-night spots and scenic walks.
Here are our top picks of what to do in this this up-and-coming suburb of Leeds this weekend.
West Royd Park
West Royd Park is a beautiful green gem situated in the heart of Farsley. A sprawling expanse of greenery featuring free tennis courts and colourful gardens with the lovely West Royd House at its centre.
Thanks to the brass band that play every weekend, the park really comes alive throughout the summer making it the perfect place to bring a picnic, relax and take in the stunning scenery.
West Royd Park, Farsley.
Sunny Bank Mills
Sunny Bank Mills is an inspirational commercial and cultural destination in the heart of the local community of Farsley. Founded in 1829, these beautifully restored mills are now home to a range of independent organisations both large and small.
Visit their 3,000 square foot art gallery and view the work of local artists, designers and makers. You can buy many of the pieces on display or have a go yourself at one of their many workshops and creative courses.
Sunny Bank Mills, Farsley.
Grumpy’s
This laid back, family-friendly restaurant is the perfect place to settle down with a good bottle of wine whilst enjoying one of their wood fired pizzas. Take a seat inside their restaurant where interesting art work and fairy lights decorate the exposed brick walls, or bask in the sun and enjoy a cold pint in their beer garden.
There’s a huge selection of pizzas on the menu including the ‘greta’ which is a vegan, create your own pizza where you can have rose harissa as a base and add other toppings such as beetroot pesto and vegan mozzarella. If you’re after something sweet, make sure to leave room for their homemade tiramisu drenched in amaretto and coffee which will transport you to Italy in a flash.
Located in Sunny Bank Mills, Farsley
Read more: The best things to do in Otley this weekend.
Olive and Feta
Olive and Feta is an intimate restaurant in the heart of Farsley that serves up traditional Turkish and Italian food with a Mediterranean twist. Expect an incredibly warm welcome along side delicious food and drink. Think mezze sharing boards piled high with lamb kofta, halloumi and more.
Head there between Sunday and Thursday to enjoy two courses for £16 and try their traditional Kavurma (Turkish fajitas) or their Turkish meatballs topped with melted mozzarella.
8 Town Street, Farsley.
Sabroso Street
Opened by husband and wife team David and Anika in 2016, Sabroso is a casual Mexican eatery and bar. After leaving their jobs and venturing into the world of street food, turning their horse box into a travelling Mexican kitchen, they decided to open a permanent location in their home town of Farsley.
Mouth-watering tacos, burritos and loaded nachos can be enjoyed alongside your favourite tequila cocktail. They also host a bottomless brunch from Friday – Sunday where for just £27 a head, you can dine on one of their tongue tantalising brunch whilst sipping on unlimited prosecco, mimosas or Mexican beer.
10 Town Street, Farsley.
Get Cooking
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced in the kitchen, Get Cooking is the place to go if you want to learn some new chef skills or simply have some fun. Get Cooking host a range of cooking classes for you, a group of friends or a team and range from Mediterranean, Spanish, Italian and South Asian cuisine.
It’s not all about cooking though, they also offer ‘Craft Ale Brewing’ classes, ‘Bread Making’ courses and ‘Lampshade Making’ workshops. So get a group of you and your mates together and get learning because after all, every day is a school day.
43a Springfield Mill Commercial Centre, Gate 3.
Amity Brew Co.
‘Community, friendship and good beer’ are Amity’s ethos. Opening in December 2020 they have quickly become a Farsley favourite despite the pandemic. Located in the Sunny Bank Mills, the brewpub serves limited batch beer on-site to their local community, focusing on modernised takes on classic beer styles.
Pop by from Thursday to Sunday for a freshly poured pint direct from the Amity taps in a cosy, inviting space in a historical setting.
Sunny Bank Mills, Farsley.
The Constitutional
If you’re after something a bit different to shake up your weekend, head to The Constitutional for a night of comedy, bingo, music, theatre and much more. The Constitutional has transformed the old Farsley Conservative Club into an incredible community space which hosts an array of events and is a fantastic local hangout on an evening.
The quirky decor and atmosphere is reminiscent of a retro comedy club with red curtains draping the walls and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. There’s a different act on almost every night so see what takes your family, grab a ticket from their website and enjoy the show whilst sipping on a delicious craft beer.
51 Town Street, Farsley.
The Fleece
Not only is The Fleece a fantastic, oldy-worldly pub but it is also a historic landmark. It’s the oldest surviving Tetley’s Brewery public house in the UK and there’s a blue plaque on the front to prove it.
The Fleece is a great spot to watch Live Sport and to enjoy some home-cooked food, expect your traditional pub classics such as their signature handmade pies and line caught battered cod with chunky chips. You’ll also find an impressive array of real ales and European lagers which will most definitely ensure you stick around for their regular karaoke nights.
Town Street, Farsley.
Read more: The best things to do in Ilkley this weekend.
The Loft Coffee Shop
Situated inside a historic former textile mill lies The Loft Coffee Shop, a light and airy cafe offering fantastic coffee as well as a range of sweet and savoury delights. Fuel up for the day with a bacon and egg sarnie or make a pit stop mid-afternoon for a cup of tea and a slice of fluffy coconut cake with raspberry icing.
The whole menu is really fairly priced and the staff will immediately make you feel right at home.
13a Springfield Mills, Farsley.
Feature Image- Grumpy’s
