With Bradford 2025 now launched and in full flow, there is so much going on across the City to get excited about this year! As a supporter of the initiative and a key player in the region, here we pick out five of the best bits to keep an eye out for.
National Science and Media Museum Reopening
Following extensive refurbishment, the National Science and Media Museum is now open to visitors again just in time for Bradford 2025!
Often classed as one of Bradford’s biggest hidden gems, the Museum has sat at the heart of the city centre since 1983 and explores ‘the science and culture of image and sound technologies and their impact on our lives’. As well as galleries and exhibitions, the venue plays host to three cinema screens – including the popular IMAX Theatre.
There’s lots planned to celebrate City of Culture year at the Museum, with guests currently greeted by a special ‘Wallace & Gromit: Wrong Trousers’ replica upon arrival and the works of David Hockney making an appearance further in. Admission remains free, with a donation welcomed.
Take a look at the Science and Media Museum’s full schedule of ‘what’s on’.
‘DRAW!’ Supported by David Hockney
Having drawn the world around him for 60 years, one of Bradford’s most famous sons is now supporting this nationwide drawing project.
Every month of 2025, a different artist will invite the country to create a drawing inspired by their own particular, chosen theme. The challenge is already well underway, with Mr Hockney himself asking for the nation’s drawings of ‘something you find beautiful’ throughout January.
Find out more about this creative celebration and how to share your masterpieces.
The Railway Children
Over 50 years since it’s first film adaptation, ‘The Railway Children’ returns to West Yorkshire and the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.
Based on the original 1906 novel by Edith Nesbit, the exclusive Bradford 2025 event will immerse guests in a ride along the heritage railway where it was originally shot. Finishing at Oxenhope, the experience culminates with a new version of the production from a purpose-built auditorium.
Running 16th July – 7th September, tickets are available to book now.
‘Bhaji on the Beach’ Screening
Written by Meera Syal and directed by Gurinder Chadha (left), ‘Bhaji on the Beach’ is a 1993 comedy-drama which sees a group of British Asian women take an unforgettable day trip to Blackpool.
The groundbreaking film will be one of many screened at Pictureville Cinema, featuring as part of the wider ‘Northern Soul’ curation from Clio Barnard.
Spanning across six decades, the collection is dedicated to and specially recognises Northern female filmmaking.
Start Your Journey at Bradford School of Art
What better way is there to throw yourself into Bradford’s year of culture than with a course at some of the best creative facilities in the North?
Delivered in the historic Lister Building, Bradford School of Art courses range from Art and Design to Fashion, and Performing Arts to Media Make-up with Special Effects, as students explore their talents in a variety of state-of-the-art spaces.
As well as study, students benefit from genuine industry partnerships – the likes of Channel 4 and the BBC – to help them on the path to success. Qualifications are available across a range of study levels and are taught by a team of expert lecturers.
