Ilkley was listed in 13th place in the best 25 retail areas according to Newmark Retails Vitality Rankings 2024.

The town remained in the same position (13) from the 2022 rankings after first climbing the retail charts from 29th position in 2019 – an improvement of 13 rankings in total.

It beat the likes of Harrogate, York and Oxford City Centre.

Taking the top spot was Cambridge City Centre which climbed up from 36th place in 2022.

This year, the data highlighted how well areas were doing in terms of “traditional drivers”, such as market size, quality of retail offer and vacancy rate.

Newmark Retail explained: “During the pandemic’s lockdowns, these factors included very specific types of occupier that were able to trade (such as grocers, pharmacies and takeaways), vaccination rates, residents’ age, and Google’s mobility data that was monitoring consumer movement in residential, commercial and park areas.”

It added: “There are some residual impacts that affect retail centres, with ecommerce levels higher than in 2019, and working from home more common amongst white collar workers.

Ilkley was also named one of the prettiest towns by The Telegraph in 2023 (Image: Getty)

“The former especially means that there is now an over-supply of retail space across the UK, leading to increased vacancy rates and unproductive space.

“We have therefore used the amount of floorspace under redevelopment as an additional positive factor, to show locations that are taking proactive steps to improve or reduce the building stock.”

Ilkley ranked one of UK’s best shopping destinations

In Ilkley, there are a range of retail outlets, mainly situated at The Grove, Brook Street and Leeds Road, reports Visit Bradford.

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From fashion to furniture and of course foodie spots, you can expect a “unique and upmarket” shopping experience.

The Bath House Shop and The Grove Bookshop are just some of the places to stop by if you’re looking to purchase something special for yourself or a loved one.

Visit Bradford adds: “Look out for Mint Velvet boutique and Raymond Town Menswear, Bettys for sweet treats and Baytree Interiors for your home.”