by Josie Whitehead (www.whiteheadm.co.uk)
The gardens of Ilkley are such a surprise
And almost each year they win Ilkley a prize.
Forget the old car and the problems of parking,
On your own two feet see beauty more heartening.
Our beautiful gardens will make your heart lift -
The trees in their blossom are from God a free gift.
With Victorian arcades and the church gazing down,
Bradford is proud that we're the "jewel" in her crown.
From the Wharfe's busy waters, look up to the moors -
By the sunshine-lit river we'll take a short pause.
There's pink flowering cherries, and so many blooms -
The gardens especially explode with perfumes.
The churches of Ilkley you really should see,
And there's friendship for all with a good cup of tea.
The band in the bandstand is playing our tune -
And the sun is so warm on this bright afternoon.
There's fruit shops, book shops and places to eat -
Wine, cheese and flowers - "Oh!, let’s rest our feet."
Here, leisurely shopping is done with some grace
For nobody here thinks they're running a race.
The clock on the church points to quarter to four,
There's so little time left to see any more.
It's goodbye to Ilkley we're sorry to say -
But for certain you'll see us another fine day!
Copyright 1997