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Visiting Bradford – A Guide to the Alhambra Theatre

The same region that gave us the Brontë sisters and so many iconic stars is also home to one of the most acclaimed theatres in the UK. Follow our guide to uncover the amazing Alhambra Theatre and its calendar of shows.

Opened in 1914 and entertaining Bradford locals and visitors ever since, the Alhambra is where the West End meets Broadway, where drama meets panto, and where you can see some of the world’s most famous touring companies.

Loved by theatregoers and the world’s most famous production houses


The National Theatre, Disney, and the Royal Shakespeare Company are just a few major names to pass through the neoclassical theatre’s stage door. Because of this, you can expect to see a roll call of shows like Les Misérables as well as acclaimed comedians and musicians.<o:p></o:p>

Did you know the Alhambra is also home to Yorkshire’s biggest panto? There’s something for everyone all year-round, but that’s not the only reason to plan a visit

The Alhambra is steeped in history. This is a theatre that has seen it all and lived – for more than a hundred years – to tell the tale. From the golden era of variety performances to an ongoing list of revered playwrights, to go there is to be a part of its captivating heritage.

Dining out near the Alhambra Theatre

The Alhambra, named after Granada’s Alhambra palace, is surrounded by some of Bradford’s best restaurants. The theatre itself boasts one of those in Restaurant 1914, which opens for evening shows and matinees. If you’re feeling adventurous, however, explore the area surrounding Morley Street. 

Here you’ll find a melting pot of cuisines, including a Middle Eastern and Syrian menu from Bab Tooma. Or, venture to the other side of Asia to My Thai for green curry and casual drinks.

If you’re looking for something more familiar, the Alhambra Theatre is just a stone’s throw from Nando’s, Zizi and several other famed high street chains. With dinner booked, all that’s left to do is to choose from one of several great hotels near Bradford Alhambra.

Where to stay

Convenience and affordability are in no short supply in Bradford. The Alhambra is just six minutes by taxi, 15 minutes by bus, and 20 minutes by foot from our bright and airy ibis budget Bradford, which has everything you could need for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Alternatively, if you’re combining your trip with a day at the Yorkshire Dales or the Haworth & Bronte Parsonage Museum, visit Mercure Bradford Bankfield. Set in a beautiful mansion, the hotel is a favourite wedding venue and just 30 minutes from the theatre by car or taxi. You can uncover both of these hotels and a third, our ibis Bradford Shipley, on our hotels in Bradford page.

Getting to the Alhambra Theatre

The Alhambra Theatre is right in the centre of Bradford and just ten minutes from the Interchange and Forster Square train station. 
You should have no problem finding your way around Bradford. If you do, the theatre is well signposted and served by the bus stops on Centenary Square.
There’s no business like show business, and the Alhambra proves it!

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