Castleford is a welcoming town in Wakefield. Ideally located between Leeds, Wakefield and Pontefract, it offers excellent transport links and a strong community spirit. Once an industrial hub, it’s now a popular residential area with good schools, family attractions and riverside living. Combining modern amenities, green spaces and affordable homes, living in Castleford appeals to families, commuters and first-time buyers alike.
Things To Do
Castleford is packed with fun activities for all ages. Xscape Yorkshire in Castleford is the town’s biggest attraction, featuring indoor skiing at Snozone, climbing walls, a multi-screen cinema, and an excellent range of restaurants and bars. Castleford Forum Museum celebrates the town’s fascinating Roman and industrial heritage, while RSPB Fairburn Ings provides beautiful countryside walks and wildlife spotting just minutes away. Families can enjoy a day at Diggerland Yorkshire or explore the scenic Aire & Calder Navigation and Queen’s Mill for a peaceful riverside stroll. There’s always something to do in Castleford, whatever the weather.
Things you didn't know about Castleford
Castleford has a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was once the site of a Roman fort named Lagentium, and much of the town still sits above Roman remains. The Rivers Aire and Calder meet just north-west of the centre, shaping Castleford’s landscape and trade routes. The town is the proud home to the Castleford Tigers rugby league club – one of the sport’s most historic teams. It also boasts one of the UK’s oldest male voice choirs, founded in 1926, reflecting Castleford’s strong community roots and cultural traditions that continue to thrive today.
Schools in Castleford
Families moving to Castleford are well served by an excellent choice of schools with good reputations and supportive communities. These schools consistently perform well in local and national league tables, offering high-quality education for children of all ages – making homes near Castleford schools particularly sought-after.
Eight of the most popular local schools include:
- Castleford Academy
- Airedale Academy
- Lady Elizabeth Hastings CofE Primary School
- St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
- Castleford Three Lane Ends Academy
- Allerton Bywater Primary School
- Castleford Park Junior Academy
- Half Acres Primary Academy
- Glasshoughton Infant Academy
- Wheldon Infant School and Nursery
Transport
Castleford’s transport connections make it an ideal location for commuters. Castleford railway station provides direct services to Leeds, Wakefield, Pontefract and York, while Glasshoughton station (a neighbourhood situated within Castleford) offers an additional stop close to Xscape and Junction 32. The modern Castleford bus station, located next to the train station, offers regular services across West Yorkshire, operated mainly by Arriva Yorkshire. For drivers, the town’s proximity to Junction 32 of the M62 ensures easy access to the M1 and A1(M), placing major cities such as Leeds, Wakefield and York (just to name a few) within easy reach.
History
Castleford’s history stretches back to Roman times, when a fort and settlement known as Lagentium stood where the modern town now lies. During the Industrial Revolution, Castleford became a major centre for coal mining, glassmaking and milling. The town’s iconic Queen’s Mill, once one of the largest stone-grinding mills in the world, stands as a proud reminder of its industrial heritage. The expansion of the canals and railways further fuelled growth in the 19th century. Today, Castleford celebrates its past through the Castleford Heritage Trust, community events and preservation of historic landmarks such as All Saints Church.
Eating & Drinking
From cosy cafés to family-friendly restaurants, Castleford has a wide range of dining options. The Twisted Tree in Whitwood serves locally sourced modern British dishes, while New Eastern Court on Colorado Way offers authentic Chinese and Oriental cuisine. Popular national chains such as Harvester, Frankie & Benny’s, Bella Italia and ASK Italian can all be found near Xscape Yorkshire and Junction 32. For relaxed coffee and lunch, Rockello Café in the town centre is a local favourite. Whether you’re dining out with family or grabbing a quick bite after shopping, Castleford’s food scene has something for every taste.
Shopping
Castleford provides a fantastic mix of retail options. Junction 32 Outlet Shopping Village in Castleford is one of Yorkshire’s top shopping destinations, offering big-name brands and designer outlets at discounted prices. In the town centre, Carlton Lanes Shopping Centre features a blend of high-street names and independent retailers, while Castleford’s traditional indoor and outdoor markets remain popular for fresh produce and local goods. Major supermarkets including Asda, Morrisons and Aldi ensure everyday convenience. Together with the shops and cafés at Xscape Yorkshire, Castleford offers a complete retail experience for residents and visitors alike.
