Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Sicklinghall

"Basically, this is the ruins of a Christian monastery that was set within a public park right on the banks of a great looking river. Built during the 12th century by monks who had forsaken their home in Barnoldswick, the ruins are still preserved, and visitors can get a slice of history by admiring them. The abbey and the grounds look very relaxing and a pleasant day out will help one unravel all this and more."

"Located just a short distance out of the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey is beautifully preserved, offering visitors an opportunity to walk through the ruins. The abbey is located beside the River Aire, making it the perfect starting point for a relaxing stroll by the water. Kirkstall Abbey | © Minda / Wikimedia"

"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"

"Small but perfectly formed, Clifford’s Tower offers, among other things, splendid views across the city and York Minster from its circular platform up high. It also tells an interesting tale, often referred to as York Castle, the site dates back to 1068 when William the Conqueror was busy trying to rid the north of Vikings and built a number of castles on his way. While many battles raged over the centuries (the murky Jewish massacre of 1190 cast a long shadow), York Castle’s role evolved, including stints as a prison and a royal mint."

"With breathtaking views of York, Clifford’s tower is an important stop off for anyone new to the city. Originally part of York Castle, the tower was built by William the Conqueror and has been used as both a prison and a royal mint."

"Things to Do, Attractions"

"You’ll find one of the biggest parks in Europe three miles north of Leeds city centre. Roundhay Park is a beautiful outdoor space that covers a massive 700 acres, with landscaped gardens, rolling parkland and two scenic lakes. It’s a great place to get back to nature, but you’ll also find a few man-made attractions here that are just as worthy of your time – think adventure playgrounds, sports pitches, tennis courts and a skate park."

"Roundhay Park is one of the most popular attractions in Leeds. With over 700 acres of land, the area is a fusion of woodlands, lakes, formal gardens, cafes and playgrounds. It also houses Tropical World, a place where you can experience different exotic animals like meerkats, monkeys, crocodiles, butterflies and many others."

"Credit: Chris Robertshaw licensed for commercial reuse under Creative Commons. Opened in 1897, Elland Road was originally used as a rugby ground until Leeds City Football Club formed in 1904. When they were expelled from the Football League in 1919, it was sold to Leeds United FC and it’s been their home ever since."

"Overlooking the River Calder, sits the ruined medieval castle, Sandal Castle. With free entry, this place offers a great day out at little cost, providing fantastic views of the river and of Wakefield, it is one of the more breathtaking sites to visit on this list!. Many visitors have praised it for being gorgeous and also fascinating!"

"Did you know that Leeds is one of just three cities in the UK with its own ballet and opera companies?. The former is Northern Ballet, a critically acclaimed company that’s widely considered to be one of the best in the world. Led by David Nixon OBE, they offer up unique reinterpretations of classics like Swan Lake alongside new ballets like Casanova, The Little Mermaid and The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas."

"The Northern Ballet is a touring dance company which performs locally, nationally and internationally, with its home in Leeds. They are well-known for transforming popular stories into Dance, such as The Little Mermaid and The Great Gatsby. You should definitely take up the opportunity to watch one of their mesmerising ballets if you have the chance."

"Leeds Minster belongs to the Church of England foundation and holds a lot of architectural and liturgical significance. Although the present structure is a Gothic Revival one, dating from the mid-19th century, yet its site bespeaks of church presence ever since 7th century. The church is dedicated to Saint Peter and has been designated a grade I listed building by&...Read more"

"Leeds Minster is one of the most striking structures in the city. It’s believed that the site has been used as a place of worship since the 7th century, but the current Gothic-style building, designed by Robert Dennis Chantrell, was consecrated in 1841. The building was christened Leeds Minster in 2012 and was known as St Peter’s and Leeds Parish Church prior to that."

"Right in the heart of Nidderdale, Stump Cross Caverns provides the perfect subterranean day out in Yorkshire. You can explore the complex web of walkways and chambers as you descend 65 steps below the earth. These ancient natural caves are home to prehistoric animal remains and a series of unique limestone formations that have been created out of the rock by underground stream erosion over the course of millions of years."

"The limestone landscape of the Yorkshire Dales is riddled with caves. The Dales are home to England’s largest cavern (in Gaping Gill) and England’s deepest cave (part of The Three Counties system). Kids will love donning a hard hat and descending into the dark depths to explore the one mile long Stump Cross Caverns near Pateley Bridge."