There are hundreds of beautiful villages across the UK – but this one has a very significant claim to fame.
Saltaire is a suburb just north of Bradford, West Yorkshire – a city which was last year named the country’s “most miserable” place to live as well as the most dangerous in Europe.
Perhaps little wonder the pretty area has so many fans as it was built as a “model village” to allow workers at the nearby textile mill to give its workers a better way of life than in the slums of Bradford.
It was built by textile magnate Titus Salt between 1853 and 1876 and the terraced housing for workers and foremen is arranged in neat streets along the edge of the railway line.
The village also features the crucial components of a desirable village – including a large church, recreation hall and a gorgeous public park by the River Aire.
But what puts this village head and shoulders over others is that in 2001 it was deemed special enough to become a Unesco World Heritage Site. The village was today picked out as Britain’s Greatest in a list compiled by the Telegraph.
It said: “Imposing and, in their way beautiful, the mill buildings loom over everything.
“Far from being ‘dark’ or ‘satanic’, their cream-coloured stonework and harmonious geometries are uplifting to behold.”
Today Saltaire remains a vibrant community, with its historic buildings repurposed for modern use – including shops, galleries and cafes.
House prices are perhaps surprisingly affordable too – Properties in Saltaire had an overall average price of £203,184 over the last year which compares to a UK average of £282,000.
Visitors adore the village – giving their view on travel review website Tripadvisor.
One said that they were “amazed”.
They added: “This place is out of this world so much culture, history, beauty and all kept in great condition.
“I will be back with friends and family.”
“We were amazed at how big the village is,” said another.
They added: “Great to walk around all the streets, gardens. Lovely feeling, would recommend.”
Another said: “If you come to Saltaire you must wander through the streets to the South of Salts Mill as well as the delightful park just across the river.
“There are some highlights such as the church.”
