Families in Bradford have a chance to enjoy a day of creativity, learning, and exploration as Bradford Cathedral family activities return for the October half-term. The free event will take place on Tuesday 28 October, with two sessions available for booking: 10am to 12 noon and 1pm to 3pm.
Children of all ages can take part in a variety of autumn-themed crafts, colouring, and quizzes. Older children can enjoy sketching, additional crafts, and educational activities designed to engage them in the cathedral’s rich history. Parents, grandparents, and carers are invited to join in, making it a true family experience. Refreshments will also be available for visitors throughout the day.
Maggie Myers, Director of Education and Visitors at Bradford Cathedral, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming children and their carers to our next free family activities. Alongside the craft activities, there are family-friendly guided tours at 11am and 2pm. There is so much to see and do at Bradford Cathedral and everyone is welcome.”
She added that the cathedral itself will be open for families to explore in their own time, with quizzes and trails to keep children entertained.
Booking in advance is advised to secure a place, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. The cathedral hopes these activities will provide a fun, educational, and memorable experience while encouraging visitors to discover more about its historic and cultural significance.
Bradford Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of St Peter, has a history stretching back to the 7th century, when missionaries based in Dewsbury first evangelised the area. The current Grade I listed building became a cathedral in 1919, although it had previously served as the parish church of St Peter. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several reconstructions and expansions. The third church on the site was completed in 1458, and its Perpendicular-style tower was finished in 1508. Victorian stained glass and sculptures by artists such as John Flaxman add to its historical richness.
In the mid-20th century, the east end and west wings were extended by Edward Maufe, incorporating stained glass from the original windows and enhancing the cathedral’s facilities. The nave and west end were reordered in 1987 to accommodate more visitors, with pews replaced by chairs to allow flexible use. Today, the cathedral stands as a vibrant part of Bradford’s cultural landscape, hosting services, events, and educational programs for the community.
The half-term Bradford Cathedral family activities offer children and their carers an opportunity to explore this iconic building while participating in hands-on learning. With crafts, colouring, and guided tours, the day promises to be both educational and fun. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the cathedral’s conservation area, which includes historic buildings and residences associated with its clergy.
Bradford Cathedral has won several accolades over the years for its tourism workings. It won “Best use of digital” in 2022’s Museum+Heritage awards, and was a finalist in the Yorkshire Post Tourism Award for “Outstanding contribution to Tourism” in 2022. It also possesses a quality mark from the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom, and won the “Small Visitor Attraction of the Year” award in 2020 from Welcome To Yorkshire.
To book in free visits in the 10am slot, this link is available.
Alternatively, click here for the free 1pm slots.
For families in Bradford looking for an engaging day out during the half-term break, these activities at Bradford Cathedral combine history, creativity, and fun in a welcoming and inspiring setting.
