Our aim is to give members the opportunity to enjoy the experience of looking at old and historic buildings, both locally and further afield. Enjoyment is the Group’s primary objective. But it’s hoped that, at the same time members will develop their appreciation of the importance of old and historic buildings in understanding our cultural and artistic heritage.

Where we can we arrange out of hours expert-guided tours of the old buildings we visit so we can get maximum value from the trip. We usually travel by carshare but don’t worry if you aren’t able to drive - drivers are always reimbursed.

We try to visit a broad and varied range of old and not so old buildings. The emphasis is on history and architecture rather than just old buildings. If it is of interest we'll make the effort to visit it. As well as stately homes, castles and museums we explore old mills, gentry houses, libraries, civic buildings, follies, abbeys, schools, churches and agricultural buildings. We'll visit any building with architectural or historic interest, or both. We've even visited a signal box and a nuclear bunker!

For more information about the Old Buildings Group and its activities contact the group leader, Les Chandler, via this link.

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April took the group to Bradford Town Hall [technically 'City Hall' since 1965] for a private tour of this magnificent Victorian building. Originally the town hall was housed in the Fire Station on Swain Street, but as the 19th century progressed it became clear that larger premises were required to cope with the town's rapidly increasing population. In 1869, a new site was identified and a competition launched for the design of the new building. The council was keen to reflect Bradford's new-found wealth and importance and resolved to erect a town hall to rival those of Leeds and Halifax. No-one could argue now that they failed to achieve that objective. The building was designed in the Venetian style popular at the time, with an imposing 200 foot high bell tower inspired by the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. And the façade was lined with statues of former monarchs, in date order. Interestingly these include, on the side facing Centenary Square, a statue of Oliver Cromwell the self-styled Lord Protector. The interior of the building is every bit as spectacular as the exterior, once you manage to find your way in! Our tour of the town hall began in the reception area but this is carefully hidden behind the door to the Registry Office. Once you find your way inside though the treats that await you have to be seen to be believed. As we were led by Gemma, our delightful guide, through the town hall's many corridors and function rooms we ran out of superlatives to describe them. From the grand elegance of the original entrance hall, through the imposing law court, to the magnificent banqueting hall, and on to the council chamber with its stunning Spanish mahogany furnishings, there is no other word to use but 'Magnificent'. Even the model of the Town Hall on the first floor landing takes your breath away - and that's before you set eyes on the gorgeous display of council silver, glassware and ceramics which make up the city's civic treasures. I don't think any of us will forget the day we visited Bradford City Hall.