The West Riding of Yorkshire was one of the three historic subdivisions of the county of Yorkshire in northern England. It was known for its diverse landscapes, including the rugged Yorkshire Dales and the industrial towns that emerged during the Industrial Revolution. Major cities in this area included Leeds, Bradford, and Wakefield, which played significant roles in textile manufacturing. In 1974, the West Riding was abolished as an administrative county and divided into several metropolitan and non-metropolitan districts. Today, parts of the West Riding are included in the West Yorkshire metropolitan county, while others are in North Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. The region remains culturally rich, with a strong heritage in industry and the arts.