Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Spofforth

"You can learn about its rich history at the visitors’ center. Here you will learn about its deep history and how monks lead their lives. Run by the Cistercian Order, the Abbey also has vast parklands where you and your beloved can take strolls for as long as you want."

"Few locations can top the spectacular backdrop offered by the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, and with 24 hectares of parkland surrounding it, you can enjoy a romantic stroll before asking that all important question."

"Ruined but prideful, forgotten but known, beautifully neglected — Kirkstall Abbey is a lot of things to a lot of people. This gorgeous piece of historic …"

"Clifford’s Tower offers stunning views of the city from it’s vantage point on top of a mound. The tower is what’s left of the York Castle which was built by William the Conqueror. 1 mile(s) from the Minster.Tower St, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA, United Kingdom"

"To see a fantastic panorama of York and take some great photos, head to the Clifford’s Tower. The entry price is a bit high for what the place has to order. However, it’s excellent for photos that you’re going to take there."

"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."

"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."

"The Victoria Quarter of Leeds is a series of Victorian shopping arcades whose opulent style and extravagance have led them to house some of the most expensive retail stores in Leeds. The County Arcade is perfect for an Instagram shot with its wonderful mosaic floor, gilt designs and marble columns…"

"Soak up the sunshine and take stock of your day’s sightseeing by enjoying one of York’s magnificent parks. The city is blessed with an abundance of green spaces, so take your pick...The York Museum Gardens are one of the reasons York is so wonderful. As well as being a beautiful botanical garden, you’ll find the Yorkshire Museum, York Observatory, York Hospitium, the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and a Roman Fortress."

"Knaresborough Castle was once a medieval stronghold, overlooking the River Nidd. When visiting the castle, you can explore on your own or join tours to learn about the king’s chambers, dungeons and the secret underground exit. Knaresborough offers amazing insight into the medieval life and its residents throughout history."

"Walk along the picturesque riverside, or row a boat out under the viaduct’s soaring arches, or simply wind your way through narrow lanes to Knaresborough Castle. Our pit-stop in Knaresborough certainly was the perfect end to the day."

"Many areas of the Yorkshire countryside look like something out of a fantasy film, and this is especially true of Brimham Rocks. The huge natural rock formations were carved into strange shapes by an ancient river and now sit prominently in the midst of the rolling hills of the Dales."

"Depending on the adventurous nature of your kids – or the nerves of mum and dad!. – make a family trip to Brimham Rocks. The National Trust managed Brimham Rocks is an elevated plateau full of rocky towers and enormous rock formations with alcoves and tiny caves for exploring."

"Brimham Rocks is one the finest natural wonders in Yorkshire. These balancing rock formations are set amidst the awe-inspiring landscape of God’s Own Country. They’ve slowly formed over thousands of years as the millstone grit has been eroded by water, glaciation and wind."

"This homely cafe just across Leeds Bridge is small but perfectly formed – a little like sitting down for a cuppa and snack in your friend’s living room. While not vast, it’s still a prime place to eat with kids. There’s plenty of space between tables to fit a buggy through, and they have high chairs and baby changing facilities too."

"You can fill your belly with a huge buttermilk pancake at Cha Lounge. There are three indulgent options to choose from. You can get yours topped with bacon and syrup or slathered in Nutella with sliced banana and a sprinkling of toasted cashews."

"Located down on Kirkgate, Doghouse is the second venture from the owners of 212 Cafe and Bar, but this time they’re taking the music from the DJ booth and turning it into a full-blown record store. On offer here is three floors of stripped back, vintage-style decor where families can kick back on old Chesterfield sofas. Spend the day playing a retro Super Nintendo console, working your way through the tempting bar snacks on offer (pork pies with piccalilli, heck yes) and browsing Paula’s Record Store on the third floor."

"Grand Arcade is another beautiful Grade II listed building, with a beautiful Victorian architecture consisting of arched windows and wooden floors. It is again home to lots of independent shops, such as a wedding dress shop, as well as some well-loved eateries like Zaap Thai Street Food."

"Considering its relatively small stature, the Grand Arcade definitely packs plenty in. It’s full of places to eat and drink – this is where you’ll find the hidden entrance to The Domino Club tucked away inside Lords’ Barbering, and the quaint Just Grand!"

"The Grand Arcade is one of the oldest shopping Arcades in Leeds City Centre, and it is well worth a visit…"

"Crown Point Shopping Park is a fun place to visit if you are looking to unwind and have a leisurely trip to shop or dine. This is also a go-to place to complete your errands and buy some essentials that you need at home or your office. Housing a wealth of shops from drugstore, gadgets and appliance store, furniture, pet store, toy store, clothing shop, optician and travel and tour agency, they certainly offer comprehensive solutions to the different needs that you may have."

"Just on the south side of Leeds, Crown Point is the closest retail park to the city centre. It’s a great place to visit, with a variety of well-known names lined up for you to explore. Book a holiday at Tui, browse the Wren Kitchens showroom and see how you stand up to the pester power of your kids when you take them along to Smyths Toy Superstore."

"A Leeds fixture for decades, St Johns has three entrances, two levels and is home to the Post Office and Poundland. Step inside and you’ll find over thirty eateries and shops, the location making it an ideal spot to pick up some essentials or something to eat during your lunch break if you work nearby. Get your nails refreshed at Magic Nails, your eyebrows threaded at Browline and grab a culture fix at the branch of HMV on the lower floor."

"Though it is not creating as much loud as other shopping centres in Leeds, St Johns Centre has been serving its regular segment of customers for many generations. It established in the year 1985 and now possesses more than 30 stores spread across two floors. St Johns Centre features few of the famous brands like Poundland, Card Factory, Stampede and Taco Bell."

"Nestled in the centre of Leeds industrial quarter sits gastropub The Cross Keys. Whilst it’s interior boasts exposed brick, plush leather booths and flagstone floors that scream cosiness, it’s the beer garden you’ll want to flock to come the warmer months. Wooden decking and picnic tables adorn the rear of the pub, creating a blissful sun trap to enjoy the locally sourced food menu or one of the many regional craft ales."

"For a proper traditional pub complete with roaring fires, cosy nooks and a top selection of local beers, wine and spirits, head to The Cross Keys. It’s a lovely child-friendly pub to grab a drink, and even better, it has a great family restaurant too. The North Brew Co beers are a big draw here, but if you’re stopping for food, you’ll find a locally-sourced menu of tastiness."

"Home to one of the biggest and best beer gardens in Leeds, The Cross Keys is bound to be buzzing with punters during the summer months. Make your way to the Water Lane pub and restaurant for gastro bites and charming service while chilling with your mates."

"Residence 74 is a cool and cosy cafe bar in Cookridge, decked out with exposed brickwork, leafy green plants and attention-grabbing neon signs. It’s the perfect place for a chilled out morning, so grab yourself a wood-fired coffee or a Jeeves & Jericho tea, then sink into their vintage Chesterfield sofa. If you’re staying for a bite to eat, they have all the breakfast classics, from American pancakes to an almighty full English, as well as a delicious selection of hot sandwiches."