The independent businesses helping Huddersfield flourish

CSince the promotion of Huddersfield town last season and a rumoured boost in investment towards the future of Huddersfield (HD One), we’re beginning to notice a positive change in the perception of our beloved West Yorkshire town.

While neighbouring Halifax has had a flurry of government investment and been the beneficiary of floods of subsequent tourism, Huddersfield has been slower to catch up. Business rent in the area is significantly higher than bordering towns/villages and many retail stores have tried and failed to make a permanent home in Huddersfield. The result? Empty buildings and a lack of investment in the town centre.

While Huddersfield continues to claim back popularity, we’ve explored some of the independent businesses going against the grain – helping to boost Huddersfield’s presence and strengthen the town’s business and tourism prospects.

Om is Where the Heart Is
A great spot to find your zen and sample some delicious homemade grub, Om is Where the Heart is has been occupying space in Slaithwaite since 2016. With a purpose-built yoga studio and an attaching restaurant/bar, Om has rocketed in popularity in the past couple of years. The energetic husband and wife team have gradually grown the business,  increasing both their yoga and their dining offering. As well as a large selection of staple menu items, there’s a daily specials board - the gift that keeps on giving.

Tip: Visiting for food? Sample the all-mighty tacos, you really won’t regret it.

Magic Rock Bar & Brewery
If you haven’t been to experience an evening in Magic Rock – you’re seriously missing out. Founded in 2011, Magic Rock brewery has pumped out some of the UK’s most popular beers, including the Salty Kiss and Highwire. Their on-site brewery is something to be marvelled at (you can even book an in-depth tour to learn more about how it all works), and their on-site bar is equally impressive. Choose your poison of choice from a big chalkboard behind the bar, then head to the outdoor seating space to pick up some street food from one of the many vans they have stationed there each weekend.

Tip: Check their social media accounts to find out which of the many local street food truck’s they’re hosting throughout the month. From bao buns to vegan mac ‘n’ cheese – there is something for everyone. There's also free parking on the street nearby.

Colourcube Automotive
We recently had the pleasure of visiting Colourcube Automotive to meet the amazing team that consists of Liz and Mike (husband and wife, naturally). Be warned, this is not just any bodywork repair company. Colourcube only use the best equipment and their humble front office leads out into a monster workshop – ft. onsite spray oven, water-based mixing system and proper extraction to minimise the environmental effects (you won’t see many independent Bodyshop’s with this type of equipment!).

These guys take health & safety seriously and have fast become known in the area for their remarkable vehicle repair expertise and friendly service. Ask your colleague or neighbour to recommend an automotive Bodyshop, and it’s more than likely that they’ll point you in the direction of Colourcube.

Tip: Call in when you next need a bodywork repair and take a peek at the impressive facilities for yourself.

Top Bodies Gym
We’re yet to find a gym which rivals the community/family atmosphere of this one. Situated in the town centre and run by two brothers, Top Bodies has been in Huddersfield for over 30 years. The owners and the gym members really know their stuff, and there’s always someone on hand to help you with your squat technique. The gym also has a penchant and reputation for bodybuilding – becoming the stomping ground for several male and female bodybuilders each year as they get competition ready. Top Bodies is also equipped to provide valuable expertise on bulking up, cutting down, posing and prepping for your upcoming competition.

Tip: Try it out and see for yourself – one-off training sessions are only £3.50.

The Golf Travel People
Situated in Holmfirth, The Golf Travel People is five-star rated on Trustpilot for a reason. Run by golfers and aimed at golfers, the travel operator provides a personal touch for its band of loyal customers. They recently rebranded and added an exciting line-up of new destinations to their offering.

What we love the most is that you can’t book online. The Golf Travel People encourage you to ring up and chat to them so they can tailor your golfing trip completely to your needs. They also meet regularly with their suppliers, making sure they only offer the best breaks and hotels to customers.

Tip: Check their social media each accounts each week for exclusive deals on golfing breaks in Europe and beyond. They also have an exciting competition running until the end of October for two people to win a five-star golfing break to Tenerife.

As well as these fantastic businesses that are helping to put Huddersfield on the map, Huddersfield boasts a range of exciting events throughout the year (both for business and residents). Look out for our upcoming blog post on business events in Huddersfield.

Comment below if you’ve been lucky enough to visit some of these exciting businesses.