About Wakefield in West Yorkshire

Wakefield is a town in Yorkshire, England. The town has a long history dating back to the 12th century when it was first mentioned in the Domesday Book. Wakefield was an important market town during the medieval period and was at the crossroads of several major trade routes. The town's market charter was granted by King John in 1204. The town's main industry was wool production and it was also an important stop on the route between London and York. The town's population grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution and it became a major centre for coal mining and textile production. Wakefield was also an important railway junction and had a large engineering works. The town's economy declined during the 20th century as the coal mines and textile mills closed down. Wakefield is now a commuter town for Leeds and Wakefield. The town has a population of around 32,000.