Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Barkston Ash

"Kirkstall Abbey is a beautiful historic ruin in West Leeds that has some spectacular angles to photograph. The Abbey was founded over 800 years ago and is one of the most well preserved monasteries in the country. It’s free to step back in time into the Abbey to see the marvelous detail and architecture that it has."

"Kirkstall Abbey has a wooly great summer of sheep themed activities in the abbey!. Cistercians loved their sheep and they Kirkstall Abbey will celebrate that fact with a baa-tastic trail. Pick up or download a trail to find the whole flock and discover the different types of sheep that the UK call home."

"Explore one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. Set in wonderful parkland along the banks of the River Aire, Kirkstall Abbey boast historic architecture amid a haven of wildlife and greenery"

"Perched atop a grassy motte is Clifford’s Tower, which is one of the last remaining parts of York Castle. Originally built out of wood by the Normans, it was reinforced and rebuilt out of stone in the thirteenth century and the sturdy keep is now a popular tourist attraction in York. Wrecked by a massive explosion in 1684, its hollow, gutted interior was later used as both a prison and treasury."

"Students can find it right between the Castle Museum and the Jorvik Viking Centre. Clifford’s Tower offers visitors stunning panoramic views over Old York, thus making it the ideal starting point for any visit to the city. There’s plenty to discover here, including the remains of York Castle built by William the Conqueror, a prison and a royal mint."

"You’ll have to pay an entrance price for York Castle, but the reward is the best view you’ll see of the city below. The tower itself is also pretty on the outside for a second bonus photo. View this post on Instagram"

"If you’re craving green space, head to one of the largest city parks in Europe to spend an afternoon walking the dog or simply sunbathing on one of the many lawns. Roundhay Park is a popular spot all year round with a variety of lakes, meadows and forests to walk around and explore. Roundhay Park | © Chemical Engineer / Wikimedia | © Chemical Engineer / Wikimedia"

"Next, there’s no better way to escape the busy city than going for a stroll in Roundhay Park. The grand park covers over 700 acres and is just 3 miles north of Leeds City centre. Undeniably, it is one of the most popular parks in Leeds."

"Located between Leeds and Wetherby, Bramham Park is the site of the iconic Leeds Festival which occurs every August bank holiday weekend. If you don’t hold tickets to the festival, visit during the rest of the year to explore the 18th Century manor house and its sprawling grounds."

"Commonly known as Saint Anne's Cathedral, Leeds cathedral is the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Diocese of Leeds, and is the seat of the Bishop of Leeds. This is one of the most significant heritages building which is surrounded by the modern city of Leeds. The original cathedral was located in St. Anne's Church in 1878, but that building was demolished around 1900."

"One of the most impressive Catholic Cathedrals in the whole of the UK, Leeds Cathedral is a vital attraction for anyone with an interest in religious structures. The dramatic Gothic Revival building may only be small in size but this is more than made up for with its impressive interior. Leeds Cathedral | © Michael Beckwith / Wikimedia"

"Copyright Michael D Beckwith, licensed for commercial use under Creative Commons. Believe it or not, Leeds is home to one of the finest Catholic cathedrals in England. Built in 1904, the present building replaced St Anne’s, the original church which was raised to Cathedral status in 1878."

"No matter where you’re staying in York, you won’t go far without tripping over a historical landmark or three, from Roman ruins to a whole street full of well-preserved medieval buildings.York Minster is a spectacle to behold. So big it even has its own police force, it’s spectacular from the outside, but inside its sheer size and scale are jaw-dropping - in fact the Leaning Tower of Pisa would fit inside the central tower. Go on one of the guided tours to get an insight into this iconic building or simply take stock of the stained glass."

"Although not a royal castle by any stretch of the imagination, Roundhay Park has its own castle that sits within its grounds (btw don’t worry – Roundhay Park will get its own mention later on 🤪). Grab a shot that looks like you travelled miles away into the countryside when really you’re only about ten minutes away from home with this spot. Nicholson added the folly in the guise of a medieval gateway in the 1820s and after its construction it was used a summer house and a hunting lodge."

"I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a tumultuous year and if we could just spare a couple of hours to learn about stories of peace and social reform, we would emerge from this experience with more empathy. This museum is, literally speaking, a hidden attraction in town. It took me a few looks at maps and road signs to find it because of how small it is."

"If you fancy some retail therapy whilst visiting North Yorkshire many of the larger towns and cities such as Skipton, Ilkley, Harrogate, and York have a vast array of high street stores to temp you with the very latest in designer fashion, jewellery and much more."

"This pop-up French restaurant that takes over Le Chalet’s tearoom every Friday and Saturday night. It specialises in two very specific French delicacies. You can melt raclette over potatoes, charcuterie and cornichons or dip French bread into a molten pot of Emmental, Brie and Gruyère fondue."

"Serving authentic Mexican street food, this vibrant diner and tequila bar boasts a skylit terrace with views overlooking Briggate. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so whether you’re in the mood for an early morning burrito or a late night taco feast, your hunger pangs will be well catered for. Visit: 415, Trinity Leeds, Albion Street, LS1 5AY"

"Serving the fine people of Harrogate for in excess of 35 years, it’s a pub in Harrogate’s that’s here to stay. Always busy on a weekend and throughout the week, Christie’s is well known for its attention to detail. They’ve got a great selection of craft beer, crowd-pleasing lagers, all kinds of spirits and more."