Londoners' overlooked treasure: What did I find in Wakefield?
Wakefield is like a forgotten book of poetry, with surprises hidden on every page. It doesn’t have the prosperity of London, but its artistic and historical heritage and natural tranquility make people linger. If you're tired of the popular sights, this is a hidden gem on your trip to the UK.
Day 1: Echoes of Art and Industry
Take a train from London early in the morning and arrive in Wakefield, West Yorkshire in about two hours. This underrated city, known for its art, historical sites and tranquil natural scenery, is the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle.
1. Yorkshire Sculpture Park
The first stop is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park on the outskirts of the city. This 500-acre outdoor art space seamlessly blends natural landscapes with modern sculptures. Works by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth are scattered among the meadows and woods, with sunlight filtering through the clouds onto the bronze sculptures, giving them breath. While strolling, I came across a group of students sketching. The interaction between art and nature was particularly vivid here.
2. National Coal Mining Museum
In the afternoon, visit the National Coal Mine Museum, which is a witness to the British Industrial Revolution. Put on a miner's helmet and follow your guide 140 meters underground to experience the working environment of miners in the 19th century. With only a headlamp to illuminate the darkness, the miners’ stories told by our guide were awe-inspiring. The museum also preserves complete miners' dormitories and steam locomotives, exuding a sense of history.
Dinner recommendation: The Black Horse Hotel Restaurant, a traditional pub in the old district of the city center. Try Yorkshire pudding with beef stew. The local beer "Wakefield Ale" is mellow and slightly bitter, which is perfect for dispelling the cold.
Day 2: Historical Sites and City Walk
3. Sandal Castle
In the morning, ascend to the ruins of Sandor Castle, a 12th-century castle famous for its battles during the Wars of the Roses. Standing among the ruins and overlooking the panoramic view of Wakefield, the city is looming in the morning mist, and the heavy sense of history and the tranquility of nature are intertwined here.
4. The Hepworth Wakefield
In the afternoon, head to the Hepworth Gallery, a modern, angular building named after local artist Barbara Hepworth. Her plaster prototypes and abstract sculptures are exhibited in the museum. Light shines into the exhibition hall through the sawtooth skylight, forming a wonderful light and shadow dialogue with the works. The rooftop cafe has a great view over the glimmering River Calder.
5. Wakefield Cathedral
Walk to Wakefield Cathedral in the city center, where the spire of this Gothic church reaches into the sky. The stained glass windows inside depict religious stories, and the afternoon sun casts them into colorful paintings on the ground. It happened that the organ was being played, and the solemn music echoed under the dome, taking one's breath away.
Day 3: Healing in Nature and the Countryside
6. Angler's Country Park
On the last day, we chose the Anglers Country Park in the suburbs. The trails surrounding the lake and wetlands are suitable for cycling or jogging, and you may occasionally see flocks of swans skimming across the water. The bird watching lodge in the park is a hidden treasure where you can observe loons and kingfishers through binoculars and feel the vitality of nature.
7. Local markets and shopping
Before returning, we visited Wakefield Market, where stalls were filled with artisan cheeses, baked treats and vintage crafts. I found a second-hand illustrated book and the shop owner enthusiastically recommended the nearby independent coffee shop "The Coffee House", whose "Sea Salt Caramel Latte" is absolutely amazing.