Spotlight On Normanton

Normanton is a small market town in the Wakefield district of West Yorkshire. Known for its industrial past, the heritage of the town is deeply rooted in coal mining and the railway industries.

The neighbouring village of Altofts offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, surrounded by beautiful countryside and waterways. From here you can walk along the Aire and Calder Navigation East to Castleford or West towards Stanley Ferry and the city.

With some great places to eat and drink, some quirky shops and plenty of opportunity to get out into the great outdoors, we’ve rounded up the best of Normanton (and Altofts!) in the third of our Spotlight guides. Keep reading to find out more.

Things To Do In Normanton

What is there to do in Normanton and Altofts? Well there’s plenty of opportunity to get active, that’s for sure! There is fun for all the family at Haw Hill Park – practice your tennis skills at the tennis courts and let the children burn off some energy in the fun play park. After something a bit more structured? Normanton Leisure has a 6 lane, 25m pool, training gym and hosts regular fitness classes.

For the more adventurous, why not try your hand at clay shooting at Yorkshire Field’s Sports or enjoy a peaceful afternoon fishing at Birkwood Fisheries? If you’ve got a youngster who’s keen to start fishing, you’ll love the Canal & River Trust’s free Let’s Fish events coming up later in the year.

Haw Hill Park is definitely the place to be, as the home of Party @ Haw Hill Park in July and Normanton Gala Weekend in September. Party @ Haw Hill Park showcases a variety of unsigned performers and top tribute acts, and Normanton Gala Weekend is two days of family-friendly fun, including funfair and a firework finale.

Want to explore more of the Normanton and Altofts area? Explore one of 3 easy walking routes in Normanton here or get on your bike and discover the area as part of the Pontefract Challenge Ride.

Places To Eat & Drink In Normanton

So you’ve worked up and appetite and a thirst after all your exploring, where can you go to get some good food and drink in Normanton? If you fancy some picture-perfect homemade cakes and light bites you can’t go wrong with The Duck Egg Bakery & Tea Room. If you’re after some more substantial food, check out The Robin Hood in Altofts and their stack ’em up smash burgers. The Robin Hood is also home to Tarn51 Brewing Company, so you’re sure to get a top quality pint alongside your meal.

Just want a drink? Check out The Junction Inn or Hark To Mopsey, who both serve thirst-quenching drinks with a warm welcome.

Shopping In Normanton

Normanton might not be on the top of your list when it comes to shopping, but there’s more to this market town than meets the eye! FlowerBarn has got you covered for flowers and gifts, while Alexander’s will help you find the perfect greetings card (and even more gifts!).

Got a remote control car enthusiast in your life – or are you one yourself? RC Model Shop Direct is the perfect retail destination for you, with a massive range of products all sold at highly competitive prices.

And did you know Normanton is a market town? Whether you’re looking for a haircut or a manicure, flowers or fruit and veg, or even bedding or a new bike, Normanton Market has a wide selection of stalls ensuring you’ll find exactly what you want time after time.

Getting Here

We’ve piqued your interest and you fancy a trip to Normanton –  how do you get here?

Normanton is is just off of Junction 31 of the M62 and council run car parks can be found here. There are electric vehicle charging points in the Lidl car park on Altofts Road, WF6 2AY or in West Street car park.

If you’d rather take public transport, Normanton has an unmanned train station, served by Northern Rail, with regular trains to Wakefield Kirkgate and Castleford, and regular bus services run by Arriva.