The Sunday Times's expert judges behind the Best Places to Live guide assess a wide range of factors, from schools, transport and broadband to culture, green spaces and the health of the high street.
They look to celebrate improving towns, city centres and villages; attractive, desirable homes and locations bursting with community spirit, which the pandemic has proven to be the most important quality of all.
The judges praised Ilkley for its fantastic schools, independent shops, spectacular scenery and convenient rail links. They were also impressed by its local sports clubs and opportunities for young people, whilst giving special recognition to the community spirit which has seen the launch of numerous successful local businesses.
The boutique Ilkley cinema and the Real Food Market are just two examples of thriving businesses set up by passionate locals which sets Ilkley apart from the rest.
Image: The Ilkley Kitchen
Tim Palmer, leading judge for the Best Places to Live guide said key to Ilkley's success was its strong community spirit, along with everything being within walking distance. He said "Out of all the winners we have ever had, Ilkley is the one that fits everything best with the fewest compromises. It is very much my favourite".
Image: Friends of Ham
Ilkley's varied and lively food and drink scene were praised with special mentions going to Friends of Ham and Outside the Box cafe. Kitchen and homeware shop, Community Cutlery was mentioned as an example of the interesting independents that are brightening up the high street.
It's no surprise that Ilkley's beautiful scenery such as the Cow and Calf rocks and Middleton Woods played a major part in the town's victory. No matter where you are in the quaint town, you can look up and revel in spectacular views from all around.
Helen Rhodes, manager of the Ilkley Business Improvement District said: “This recognition is a real honour for Ilkley. There really is something for everyone of all ages here with an incredible range of outdoor and indoor clubs and activities which cater for all interests. There’s a tangible energy and vibrancy in the town and of course, the scenery in and around the area is stunning."
Most prevalent was the overriding recognition for the people of Ilkley and their passion for the town. Judges praised volunteers for all the work they do to keep Ilkley looking and feeling its best, including the town's successful Clean River Group campaign for bathing water status for the River Wharfe.
Image: The Ilkley Kitchen
Helen Davies, The Times editor said, “Ten years ago, when we launched the inaugural list, London’s gravitational pull was strong, the WFH revolution had not yet reached our doorstep and high streets were stacked with chains. How times have changed - and how welcome that change is."
"This year we have discovered new best places to live, from resurgent city centres in the North, rejuvenated suburbs across the country, hidden villages in the Southwest, and a commutable Scottish island. We hope there is something to suit everyone".
The full guide which features 70 locations can be found here.
News
Jacob Elordi says the sexiest thing about Yorkshire is ‘rocks and sheep’
As women around the world swoon over Jacob Elordi, he's too busy loving rocks and sheep.
In case you haven't been on social media over the past week and managed to avoid the influx of paparazzi images, the hotly anticipated 'Wuthering Heights' adaptation is out soon and with that comes heaps of red carpets, screenings and glamorous premieres.
Famously set against the brooding hills of Yorkshire, Wuthering Heights by our very own Emily Brontë follows the tumultuous love story of Heathcliff and Cathy.
Played in the upcoming film by Australian heartthrobs Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie.
During the recent London premiere where Elordi was seen wearing a rather dashing green three piece, the stars were asked what they thought the 'sexiest' thing about Yorkshire is by HitsRadioUK.
A valid question to which Jacob replies "rocks and sheep". I mean, he's got a fair point.
Margot Robbie went into a little more detail, she said "Sunrise and sunset in Yorkshire is a pretty dramatic experience. The sky is literally like red and orange. I honestly couldn't believe it when I was out there. The landscape is stunning."
Why thank you Margot, we absolutely agree. She continues to shower us with compliments stating that the "People are lovely. Pubs are great. I love it"
It seems like Margot has got Yorkshire pretty bang on there, and if she ever needs any pub recommendations then we'll absolutely help her out.
Jacob on the other hand, we know rocks and sheep are sexy but...have you ever met us?
Hopefully he fell in love with our county enough to come back, as we wouldn't mind bumping into him on a hike up the Yorkshire moors.
Popular Leeds gaming bar announces immediate shock closure after going into liquidation
Clementine Hall
Point Blank in Leeds city centre have suddenly closed after going into liquidation.
The popular gaming bar hasn't been open all that long, and was marketed as the country's first simulated shooting range bar.
Despite being a popular attraction since opening last year, the bar has closed immediately, unable to honour any future bookings.
Point Blank confirmed late this Tuesday 3 February that it had sadly entered liquidation, describing the move as “completely unforeseen and beyond our control.”
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Up until just a few days ago, the Point Blank branch in Leeds had been promoting events including happy hours, shooting experiences, and even a Superbowl event scheduled for next Sunday 8 February.
A statement on their website reads: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Point Blank Shooting has entered liquidation.
"This situation was completely unforeseen and beyond our control. Due to our Manchester landlord entering administration, our lease was lost as part of that process. This had a serious knock-on effect across the wider business, leaving us with no other option.
"After seven incredible years of trading, this is a devastating moment for everyone involved at Point Blank.
"If you currently have a booking with us, we are working closely with the relevant parties to gain clarity and provide answers. We kindly ask for your patience while this process is ongoing.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years — hopefully this is a see you later, not a goodbye."
Clementine Hall -
12th April 2022 
