Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in York, England
"The perfect park for picnics, relaxing by the River Aire and leisurely strolls around one of the best surviving medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain, Kirkstall Abbey has 24 hectares of parkland for you to explore. The park stretches from Abbey Mills Wildflower Meadows, which is carpeted in bluebells in the spring, past the tennis courts on the far side and over the road to the playground and fields on either side of Abbey House Museum. Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH."
"Set in beautiful parkland situated along the banks of the River Aire, the Kirkstall Abbey is an example of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. Restoring its historic architecture, the abbey also displays nature through its wildlife and greenery. The abbey was founded by Henry de Lacy, baron of Pontefract, who was one of the leading landholders in the North."
"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."
"At one point the majestic centerpiece of York Castle, this historic keep has had a long and troubled life. Originally built to intimidate and subdue the Viking north by William the Conqueror, it has been twice burned to the ground in its lifespan. The other surviving fragments of the castle (such as the bailey wall and parts of the south gatehouse) blend seamlessly into the bustling city streets."
"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."
"In the galleries at Abbey House Museum, you’ll be transported back to life in Victorian Leeds, strolling recreated 19th century streets. There are shops, a pub and houses, where you can peer inside and see how people lived a century or so ago, as well as regular new exhibitions. You can also discover a whole area on classic toys, including traditional games and Victorian dolls – you can even play some of the original penny slot machines (and buy an old-fashioned penny from the vending machine to do it)."
"You can have the perfect Leeds day out at Abbey House Museum. It sits opposite Kirkstall Abbey, so you can explore the famous ruins and make the most of the handsome park it sits in, then dive into the museum. When the Abbey still stood proud, from 1152 until Henry VIII had it dissolved in the 16th century, this building was the gate house."
"King’s Manor is a stately house in York city centre that has played host to some of British history’s most important visitors. In the days before the Reformation, it was the home of the Abbot of St Mary’s, before becoming the headquarters of the Council of the North in Henry VIII’s time. The Tudor king himself stayed there, giving rise to its current name."
"Issho, Victoria Gate 3rd Floor Rooftop, Ludgate Hill, Leeds LS2 7AU. Within the multi-million-pound shopping arcade Victoria Gate, you’ll find D&D restaurant’s Issho. From the same people who brought us Angelica and Crafthouse, the quality is fantastic."
"This Japanese restaurant and rooftop bar located in Victoria Gate offers Japanese inspired cocktails (#amazing) and exquisitely presented food. Issho is definitely THE place in Leeds to turn yourself into an Instagram food photographing nerd!"
"Indulge in one of Leeds’ biggest brunch menus whilst taking up residence in the electric and chic Ivy located in the Victoria Quarter. The vibrant and majestic interior provides the perfect setting for both special occasions and casual dining. Completely embracing the art of brunch, The Ivy has created a menu that perfects the balance between breakfast and lunch, featuring plates such as the roast beef sandwich, Keralan sweet potato curry and a wide variety of traditional brunch dishes."
"What: For a brunch that never fails to feel a little bit special, you can never go wrong with the Ivy. Leeds' outpost is found in the city's Victoria quarter and features all the traditional Ivy touches including brightly coloured décor and modern art a plenty. The weekend brunch menu doesn't just cover the standards such as eggs royale served with chips, but also drifts into more lunchy territory too.Where: Vicar Lane, LS1 6BB"
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