Tucked below heathery moors, this Yorkshire spa town is packed full of independents, quirky culture and celeb residents.
Lifestyle publisher Muddy Stilettos has published a list of the top 300 places and Ilkley is one of only ten Yorkshire locations to make the list.
Speaking about Ilkley, Muddy Stilettos comments: “Loved for its green spaces tucked below heathery moors and by the banks of the River Wharfe, the former spa town of Ilkley is within easy reach of Leeds, Bradford and the Yorkshire Dales.
“Its high street is teeming with imaginative independent shops and cafés, while there are weekly weekend markets.
“A boutique cinema, exciting restaurants, lively bars, inspirational schools, a lido and a warm community spirit make this wealthy West Yorkshire location a coveted place to live. Epitomising laid-back Yorkshire hospitality.”
The Box Tree, Emporio Italia, Galo’s Kitchen and Outside the Box Cafe were mentioned as places worth a visit, alongside Yorkshire favourite Bettys.
Ilkley’s High Street was also highlighted, with businesses including Lishman’s Butchers and Martinez Wines receiving a mention. Muddy describes supermarket Booths as the North’s answer to Waitrose.
Ilkley Pool and Lido, XO Fitness, Pure Pilates and Ilkley Lawn Tennis & Squash Club were recognised in the listing’s health and wellbeing section.
Hero Brown, the founder and editor-in-chief of Muddy Stilettos, said: “When people decide to move, they’re searching for more than just a house - they want a home, a lifestyle that works for them and their family, and if they’re strategic, a long-term investment too."Our 2025 ‘Top 300 Best Places To Live’ guide will give them that extra reassurance they need to make their search easier in these difficult economic times.”