Explore Pontefract
Known for
Pontefract Liquorice (the famous liquorice sweets made here since medieval times), Pontefract Castle (where Richard II was murdered in 1400), the Pontefract races (one of Yorkshire's finest racecourses), and a West Yorkshire town of royal and confectionery significance
A little history
Pontefract Castle was one of the most important royal fortresses in England — Richard II was imprisoned and almost certainly murdered here in 1400. The town has been producing liquorice confectionery since the monks of Pontefract Priory cultivated the plant in the 12th century. Pontefract cakes are still made here.
Pontefract Castle is excellent and has one of the most significant royal histories in England. The liquorice heritage and factory visits. The racecourse for flat racing. The market for local produce.
See Roam in action
Browse local businesses, discover events and find hidden gems in Pontefract.
Explore nearby
Your profile
Local messages
UK plans
Food & drink in Pontefract
Pontefract has good independent food. The liquorice heritage is celebrated in local shops. Local Yorkshire produce throughout.
Restaurants & cafes
Roam surfaces the Pontefract food spots locals actually love.
Bars & nightlife
Independent bars and evening spots across Pontefract.
Independent shops
Local butchers, delis and food shops worth exploring in Pontefract.
For businesses in Pontefract
The racecourse and liquorice heritage bring visitors. Independent businesses serve the local community.
List your Pontefract business on Roam — reach local customers in West Yorkshire in about 90 seconds.
Reach local customers
Roam users actively looking for what's nearby in Pontefract.
Push notifications
Send real-time offers to Roam users in Pontefract.
Build community
Build a loyal local following across West Yorkshire.
Get Roam in Pontefract
Free to download. No subscription. iOS and Android.
Frequently asked questions
Pontefract is a place in West Yorkshire known for pontefract Liquorice (the famous liquorice sweets made here since medieval times), Pontefract Castle (where Richard II was murdered in 1400), the Pontefract races (one of Yorkshire's finest racecourses), and a West Yorkshire town of royal and confectionery significance. Pontefract Castle was one of the most important royal fortresses in England — Richard II was imprisoned and almost certainly murdered here in 1400. The population is around 28,000.
Pontefract has good independent food. The liquorice heritage is celebrated in local shops. Local Yorkshire produce throughout.
Yes. Roam is a free local discovery app live in Pontefract and across West Yorkshire. It is available on iOS and Android.
Local Pontefract businesses can list on Roam for free in around 90 seconds. Add your business name, address, opening hours and a few photos via the Roam website, and your listing goes live in Roam's discovery feed for users browsing Pontefract and the wider West Yorkshire area. There is no subscription fee.
Roam covers Pontefract and the surrounding area in West Yorkshire, including Knottingley, Featherstone, Ackworth, Hemsworth, South Kirby, Upton, Badsworth and Wentbridge.
