It would be safe to say that this summer in the UK has been anything but ordinary, thanks to the heatwave. And perhaps because of that, the thought of crashing waves and the smell of salty sea air feels more inviting than ever. This August, Bradford is hoping to bring a little of that seaside charm to the city centre.
For ten days, deckchairs will replace office benches, sand sculptures will appear among the shops, and families will be invited to swap the coast for the city as Bradford By The Sea arrives from 17 to 27 August.
The free event, organised by Bradford BID, aims to transform the city centre into a summer destination with activities designed to entertain children while encouraging visitors to spend time exploring Bradford’s shops, cafés and public spaces.
Around the Mirror Pool, visitors will be able to relax in traditional deckchairs, while younger children can explore a giant Playbox filled with games and activities. Garden games will also be available throughout the event, creating a laid-back atmosphere inspired by classic British seaside holidays.
One of the main attractions will be a sand sculpture trail created by artists from Sand in Your Eye. Coastal-themed sculptures will be placed at locations across the city centre, inviting visitors to explore Bradford on foot.
Those taking part in the trail can collect a map from the Broadway Hub before searching for a hidden word. Completed entries will be entered into a prize draw to win a £100 Bradford Gift Card.
The event forms part of Bradford BID’s wider efforts to increase footfall during the summer holidays by offering free activities for residents and visitors.
Nikki Chadburn, Business Communications Manager at Bradford BID, said the idea was to create something that would appeal to families as well as people simply looking to enjoy the city centre during the summer. “Bradford By The Sea is all about bringing people into the city centre to enjoy something fun, free and a little bit different this summer,” she said.
“Whether families are looking for activities to keep the children entertained, or people simply want somewhere to relax and soak up the atmosphere, there will be plenty to enjoy.”
Bradford By The Sea will run from 17 to 27 August, with all activities free to attend.
