Why Wakefield? The Ultimate Location Guide to our West Yorkshire City

When it comes to picking a location to buy a property up north, it’s hard to beat Wakefield. Whilst here at MoveNow Properties we may seem biased (it is our hometown, after all!), we have spent many decades watching this metropolitan city flourish and grow, so we know a thing or two about its attractions. Situated only 10 miles from Leeds and with amazing connections to both Manchester and London via the M1 and M62, Wakefield has become a popular place to live for both commuters and families alike due to its connections, brilliant attractions and affordable city housing.

Housing

So what is it that makes Wakefield worth talking about? For those thinking of moving here, the housing is certainly an attractive feature. In the last 12 months the average price paid for a house in Wakefield was £180,184 – significantly cheaper than the £197,026 average price for Leeds. Now that a wealth of new homes are being built by some of the country’s biggest developers, the time to buy property and get advice from estate agents in and around the Wakefield area has never been better. Combining this with the fact that Wakefield boasts some of the best private and grammar schools in the whole of Yorkshire, and it’s easy to see why more and more young families are choosing this city as their new home.

Culture

There’s certainly more to Wakefield than housing. For those looking for a spot of culture, The Hepworth Gallery is well worth a visit and is a true winner with us Wakefordians. Named the Museum of the Year only back in 2017, the stunningly designed building has 1,600 square metres of gallery space filled with the works of contemporary artists from across the world – not forgetting Barbara Hepworth herself, whose creative journey through the 20th Century you can trace through her large number of sculptures, prototypes and working models on permanent display. From family programmes to workshops, artist talks and events, there is always something going on at the Hepworth and we regularly make trips there with family and friends.

The culture doesn’t stop there. It would seem that winning the Museum of the Year award is becoming more popular here in Wakefield, as our Yorkshire Sculpture Park also won this accolade back in 2014. With over 500 acres and 60 outdoor works to explore in Bretton Hall’s grounds, this is the UK’s first permanent sculpture park and features the work of some of the country’s greatest artists such as Elisabeth Frink, Henry Moore, Sol LeWitt and Andy Goldsworthy. Add to this the regular new commissions, temporary installations and indoor gallery spaces, and it’s easy to see why so many people come to visit this park every year.

Architecture

Only a short walk from our MoveNow estate agents is Wakefield Cathedral, which stands proudly in the heart of our city at 247 ft, making it the tallest spire in Yorkshire. Some parts of this light, airy and all-round lovely place of worship date all the way back to medieval times. The cathedral is open seven days a week, hosts regular music recitals, has an on-site café (with cake that we can fully recommend), and even has a small play area for the little ones. Out in the square you might be lucky enough to spot the ‘Hot Chestnut Man’ Alan Jones, who sets up with his dog Albert to sell chestnuts roasted over a coal and wood fire during the cold winter months. Alan Jones knows his stuff, but then again, he should – chestnut roasting runs in the family and he started helping out his dad on the stall over 50 years ago.

And much, much more…

Beyond its tourist hotspots, Wakefield can be defined by its hearty simplicities and diversity. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal in a historic pub, we have plenty to choose from throughout the city centre. For those who love to shop, our Trinity Walk retail development has all you could need and more. Some fantastic family spots including the lake and woodland at Newmillerdam, as well as the The Theatre Royal Wakefield, designed by architect Frank Matcham which opened in 1894 and is the go-to spot for entertainment including musicals, drama, live music, stand-up comedy and dance. Similarly, we have a wealth of listed buildings such as the Neoclassical Crown Court of 1810 and the Queen Anne Style County Hall of 1898 that remain a testament to the city’s history.

Of course, Wakefield still has its equal share of perks and pitfalls – as any British town or city does. But with its eclectic mix of old and new buildings, a healthy dose of independent eateries and shops all mixed in with the classic Northern charm, Wakefield truly is the place to be.

Thinking of moving to or near Wakefield? We can help! Get in touch with our friendly MoveNow Properties estate agent team today.