Mentioned by History Hit
10 of the Best Historic Sites in York
"Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH - Visit now. Founded in 1152, Kirkstall Abbey on the bank of the River Aire is one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian monastery in Britain. Its dramatic ruins have inspired artists such as JMW Turner over the centuries, and provided the perfect setting for Yorkshire’s Gothic Film Festival in 2013."
"If you want to experience the type of history that can capture your imagination with just how far back it dates, then Kirkstall Abbey is the perfect place for you. It’s one of the most complete medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain today. It also offers a picnic area, and play area for children, but don’t panic if you forget to bring something to eat."
"Step back in time and explore the historical ruins for free at Kirkstall Abbey. Unquestionably, the remarkable architecture is a sanctuary for all curious souls and historians alike. Learn about life as a monk in one of the most complete Cistercian monasteries in the UK and explore rich British history throughout the abbey."
"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."
"Clifford's Tower is an excellent first stop when visiting York. The panoramic views from the top of the tower give visitors a spectacular overview of Old Minister, York, and the North York Views. The tower is situated on a tall hill, perfect for providing defense to York."
"One of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park sprawls over more than 700 acres and welcomes more than a million visitors each year. Four miles (or an 18-minute car journey) from the city centre, the park offerd lakes, woodlands, formal gardens, cafes, two playgrounds and Tropical World. There is also the grand Mansion, now an event space for weddings and corporate events."
"This 700-acre park is a firm favourite with local families, who flock to its open green space and two huge lakes on a sunny day. It’s the biggest park in Leeds and one of the biggest in Europe, so there’s plenty of space for outdoor activities with the kids. They can play tennis, let run wild at the playground, or enjoy a picnic in the landscaped gardens."
"It's autumn and your are itching to start planning your Bonfire Night celebrations - Roundhay Park has you covered with a massive bonfire in this beautiful park!"
"Wentworth Castle Gardens are great gardens! There is a small castle nearby. Taking photos is suitable for decoration. The overall style is more idyllic, and overall praise is good! Worth coming~"
"For one day every year, the attention of the city turns solely towards Potternewton Park, the starting point for the incredible Leeds West Indian Carnival. Last year's 50th anniversary edition drew a crowd of more than 100,000 people from all over the world, including dignitaries from Nevis, where founder Arthur France was born. Expect an explosion of colour, music and outrageous costumes at Europe's longest-running authentic Caribbean carnival parade."
"Home to the famous Leeds West Indian Carnival, Potternewton Park is a 32-acre green space sandwiched between Harehills and Chapeltown. The maze of crisscrossed paths offers a wealth of walking opportunities, but it also has a range of sports facilities. Basketball and tennis courts sit alongside a skate park and bowling green, giving you plenty of outdoor entertainment options in the summer months."
"During a four-year stint in America, I ate enough hamburgers to sink the Titanic. My favourite diner was the Silver Top, in Providence, Rhode Island. I would end up there, late at night, frequently a little worse for wear, with two or three friends."
"American-inspired chain diner serving posh hamburgers with a choice of toppings, sides and salads. Byron Burger, High Ousegate, YorkT: 01904 634488"
"Okay, so it’s debatable whether a huge, novelty donut is an essential element of a picnic but when they’re this good (and this fun), why not?. Rainbow, cream-filled, seasonal, chocolatey, fruity, vegan and veggie, Doe has an array of homemade donuts to choose from right in the heart of the city. Prepare to queue at peak times, but it’s worth the wait."
"Head to Church Street to Humpit, the Hummus and Pita Bear where the menu is totally vegan!. Their menu has three items; salad bowls, hummus bowls and loaded pitas. You can choose your ingredients for the salad bowl, and the hummus bowls and loaded pitas come with chickpeas, pickles, olives, falafel and more."
"I usually get the filled pitta which is a good place to start if you're not sure what to order. The staff are lovely, very energetic, and happy to accommodate to your preferences if you do not like specific items. yorkpitasaladstuffedcauliflower"
"Christmas isn't far away guys and we have some new festive sides coming soon!. Keep your eyes peeled for more info. Established in 2014, Humpit has, in just five years, become one of the top go-to places for a delightful dining experience."
"One of the city’s most impressive landmarks, Leeds Minster was built in 1841 on an ancient, holy Christian site. It’s a beautiful, Grade I listed building, designed by Robert Chantrell, with huge stained glass windows by a range of high profile artists, including Schwanfelder, David Evans, Thomas Wilmshirst and most recently Sally Scott. You’ll also find The Leeds Cross inside – it dates back to the 10th century, making it one of the earliest objects in the city’s history."
"Our Minster is beautiful inside and out, with beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows. Not only does this grade I listed building look amazing, it sounds it too, being home to the renowned Minster Choir. The church even had their own rugby league team once upon a time!"
"Commissioned by the owner of the Old White Swan Inn, Charles Thornton, in 1875, the building of Thornton’s Arcade was opened to the public in May 1878. One of eight arcades built on the city during the era, Thornton’s Arcade is three stories high with a cast-iron Gothic roof . Inside you will find a large clock with a mechanism created by William Potts and Sons of Leeds."
"Though not the grandest, Thornton’s Arcade was the first Victorian shopping arcade to be built in Leeds and remains one of the most interesting. Its sky-coloured, neo-Gothic arches rise up to a glass ceiling and..."