Wakefield city centre has undergone a complete makeover during the twentieth century, something that still continues today as it tries to come to terms with modern building regulations, commercial and consumer needs, and the requirements of the motorist. Dubbed the ‘Merrie City’ in the Middle Ages, the city has a long history as a prominent market town and epicentre for the wool trade.

Wakefield then developed further in the eighteenth century, thanks to its links with the corn, coal mining and textiles trades. Evidence of the city’s intriguing past survives in its iconic buildings and structures, which include Wakefield Cathedral, the old Wakefield Bridge and the listed buildings in the Civic Quarter. Join author Peter Tuffrey as he reveals the bygone scenes and modern views of this historic city and the surrounding area.