Are you thinking of moving to Castleford? We have put together this easy guide full of information about the wonderful town of Castleford.
Firstly, the question you should be asking is why would you not to move to Castleford? This charming historic town blooms with personality. Castleford is situated in the metropolitan borough of Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England; historically in the West Riding of Yorkshire. To the North of the town centre the River Calder joins the River Aire and the Aire and Calder Navigation.
Castleford town is the site of a Roman settlement, within the Castleford Borough are the suburbs of: Airedale, Cutsyke, Ferry Fryston, Fryston Village, Glasshoughton, Half Acres, Hightown, Lock Lane, Townville, Wheldale and Whitwood. According to the 2011 census Castleford has a population of 40,210.
Best areas to live in Castleford
If you’re looking to settle in the amazing town of Castleford but you’re not sure where to start your home hunting journey, we’re here to help.
Ferry Fryston & Fryston Village: Ferry Fryston and Fryston Village are suburbs of Castleford. Going back in time coal mines existed within the boundaries of the former parish in New Fryston (Fryston Village), locally known as Fryston Pit. The area where the mine once stood has now been re-developed, these developments were the subject to a documentary on Channel 4. Fryston has so much to offer such as stunning walks at Fryston Country Trails, spanning across 65 hectares. The average property price of a house sold in Ferry Fryston/ Fryston Village in the past year was £135,000, with semi-detached and terraced properties being the most popular sales.
Airedale: Airedale is a popular vibrant suburb within Castleford. Airedale is the perfect area to live in if you’re looking to have access to lots of local amenities. Take a walk through The Green, there’s lots of outdoor play equipment, perfect for children to explore and take in nature. The Ferrybridge Golf Club is also nearby if you fancy a few rounds of golf. Pop down to Michelle’s café and enjoy a cup of tea and tasty full English breakfast. If you’re sold on Airedale, the average property price was £161,459 over the last year. The majority of sales in Airedale during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £132,698. Detached properties sold for an average of £231,858, with terraced properties fetching £132,846.
Glasshoughton: Glasshoughton is a neighbourhood of Castleford and is a hive of activity. Its home to the Xscape Indoor Ski Slope and Leisure Centre, as well as the popular Junction 32 Shopping Outlet. Glasshoughton is renowned for its Wheel of Light, a former pit winding wheel now made into a sculpture as a memorial to the miners of Glasshoughton. A property in Glasshoughton has an overall average price of £165,279 in 2021. Most of the sales during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £148,562. Terraced properties sold for an average of £119,786, with detached properties fetching £236,333.
There’s also a great range of primary and secondary schools within Castleford. Castleford Academy and Glasshoughton Infant Academy were both presented with an Outstanding from Ofsted.
Things to do in Castleford
With so many things to see and do Castleford really does have it all. Here are our top picks of things to do when exploring Castleford.
Fryston Country Trails
Explore spectacular scenery at the stunning Fryston Country Trails, free to visit and open all year round what’s not to love? There’s 8km worth of footpaths, cycleways, and bridleways alongside a beautiful stretch of the River Aire. Take in the beautiful meadows and woodland walks whilst spotting wildlife in its natural habitat.
RSPB Fairburn Ings
Another iconic place of outstanding natural beauty is the RSPB Fairburn Ings. It’s one of the most relaxing, breathtaking nature reserves in West Yorkshire packed with picturesque views for all the family to see. Noted for its avian biodiversity, the reserve has recorded around 280 bird species that you can identify on your journey. Parking for the day is just £4, a great price for an unforgettable experience. The shop in the visitor centre sells a range of refreshments, including sandwiches, pies, and hot and cold drinks, plus a wide range of RSPB products, from bird seed and feeders, to books and children’s toys.
Xscape Yorkshire
Visit Xscape Yorkshire this easily accessible leisure centre is located just off Junction 32 from the M62 and is perfect for any occasion – a family day out or a last-minute date night. The indoor ski slope ‘Snozone’ is the biggest feature at Xscape and is must-see experience, are you brave enough to give it a go? Xscape is packed with entertainment from the ‘Gravity Climbing Wall’ and trampoline park to the ‘Xplore’ soft play area for little ones. With an exceptional variety of restaurants to grab a bite to eat in, with popular favourites such as: Nando’s, Pizza Express, TGI-Fridays, Burger King and many more — also it’s free parking!
Junction 32
Looking to hit the shops and pick up some bargains? Head to Junction 32 Shopping Outlet with over 90 high street stores including Adidas, Jack Wills, Moss Bros, Nike, Next and many more. Get up to 60% off every single day. The shopping centre also has a variety of coffee shops and restaurants for you to relax in and take a break before you head back to the shops. A large majority of the stores are dog friendly, bring your pooch along for a day of pampering. Free parking is also available at Junction 32 Shopping Outlet.
Carlton Shopping Lanes
Carlton Shopping Lanes is another great shopping destination and has a reputation for friendliness and good value. It’s home to an array of well known and loved high street brands like Newlook, M&S, Argos, Boots and many others.
Phoenix Theatre
Castleford isn’t short of music and culture, take a trip to its Phoenix Theatre. This high-tech theatre boasts world class talent, with performances such as ‘Grease’, ‘Blood Brothers’ and many more; you’ll be overwhelmed with such a large variety of shows to choose from. The Phoenix Theatre has a foyer that serves mouth-watering refreshments to keep the energy at the highest throughout the show. And… you guessed it free parking.
Castleford Tigers
Sport is at the heart of Castleford, visit the Castleford Tigers rugby league club at Wheldon Road also known as The Mend-A-Hose Jungle. The Castleford Tigers compete in the Super League, and the top-level professional rugby league. You’ll even find easyProperty Local Property Expert and rugby league star Liam Watts playing the field when he’s not busy putting the ‘prop’ into property.
Golf
Golf is also a popular sport in Castleford with two courses, one at Ferrybridge Golf Club and the second at Whitwood Golf Course. Both clubs require you to have a membership and have a great social scene once you’ve finished playing enjoy a drink at the bar and club house.
Diggerland
Looking for something to keep the kids entertained? Take them to Diggerland, Guests of all ages can ride, drive, and operate real diggers! All in a safe and family friendly setting.
Castleford Forum Library and Museum
If you’re interested in learning about the history of Castleford visit Castleford Forum Library and Museum. The library covers the two lower floors of the building, on the top floor the museum captures the history of Castleford, from the Bronze Age to the modern day. View the unique and special Iron Age chariot and see objects from Castleford’s time as an important Roman town. It also features four very special changing displays with content created in partnership with local groups and people. There’s display in the local studies area of the refurbished building celebrating artist Henry Moore and his connections with Castleford. The famous Henry Moore statue can also be found in the library building after being moved from the Civic Centre.
Escapologist
Are you looking for a challenge? Escape the everyday at Castleford’s Escapologist. Known as escape rooms with a twist. Offering fully immersive games, catering for a broad spectrum of ages. Referred to by customers as ‘Crystal Maze in a Film Set’. The Escapologist offer Children’s Parties, Corporate Team Building, Social Events & everything in-between.
Castleford Bridge
Another must-see is the renowned Castleford Bridge, offering magnificent views of the River Aire. Designed by architects Benedetti the multi-award-winning bridge is an outstanding 130m long pedestrian bridge creating new public spaces in the first phase in Castleford Bay waterfront regeneration Masterplan; the design and construction process featured in Channel 4 TV documentary. The bridge is free to cross and is a popular hot spot for locals and visitors alike.
We hope that you found this easy guide to Castleford helpful and that you’re now sold on Castleford. For more information and advice get in touch at customerservice@easyproperty.com
