Historic Sites in Fulford

"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."

"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"

"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."

"Clifford’s Tower (also known as York Castle) has been at the heart of York for many centuries now. It’s endured a fair few battles and what remains of the fortified complex that once consisted of prisons, castles and law courts, is now a ruinous castle. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee, where you’ll see panoramic views of the Vale of York."

"Another great historic house with plenty to do in the grounds for kids, Temple Newsam is only around 15 minutes’ drive from Leeds city centre. The rare breed Home farm is a big hit with younger kids – and older ones, for that matter – with everything from the small and fluffy, including guinea pigs, to rarer farm animals, all set within the outbuildings and around the cobbled yard. There are some lovely walks around the grounds too, with nature trails and an adventure playground too."

"Head three miles out the centre to the historic Temple Newsam, it is easily accessible from the city by car, bus and Uber. Take in your surroundings in the country estate by enjoying the picturesque grounds, operational farm and extraordinary house. Uncover the many walking trails, sport facilities and there is even a GoApe here for the adrenaline junkies at an extra cost."

"Landscaped by Capability Brown, Temple Newsam has 1,500 acres of grounds for you to explore, with stunning vistas and scenic walks. The Menagerie Ponds are one of the highlights. Each has a different personality – the first is surrounded by parkland, the second by perennials and the third by the bamboo garden."

"Abbey House Museum is one of those museums in Leeds which holds a number of activities for the children ranging from descriptive to interactive. This museum was short-listed for the Guardian ‘Kids in Museum family Friendly Award’ in 2011. The museum allows you to go back in time and wander in the Victorian Streets so as to see the life in 19th century Leeds."

"As the name implies, York’s Merchant Adventurers were merchants. They traded along the English coast, northern Europe and sometimes as far as the Baltic and Iceland, bringing back an assortment of desired goods to York. The city was an important river port and the wealthiest city in Northern England, second only to London for most of the Middle Ages, allowing the merchants to make enough money to build the Hall between 1357 and 1361."

"Another excellent photography spot and Instagrammable place in York is the Merchant’s Hall. The Merchant’s Hall has one of the most impressive guildhalls in the world, and sometimes you can get it empty – it’s incredible for photos."

"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."

"Visitors to Harewood House will be pleasantly surprised by the array of attractions on offer. Not only can the house and gardens be admired, but there is also a farm experience and a series of interesting events including theatrical performances and costume exhibitions. Visitors can even visit the resident Humboldt penguins at feeding time!"

"A romantic 32-acre (13-hectares) lake sets the tone for a romantic stroll on the grounds of Harewood House, exploring which is one of the best things for couples to do in Leeds. The swooping riverbanks serve as the perfect spot to chill and sit beside each other. Walk around the lush garden filled with colorful rhododendrons and daffodils."

"Harewood House is no doubt the prettiest place in Leeds for a romantic stroll. Explore over 100 acres of gardens together. Admire the fountains in the formal terrace garden, wander amongst the rhododendrons in the Himalayan garden, and find fruit and veg growing in the walled garden."

"They’re made fresh in house every day and they keep things interesting by switching up the flavours, so there’s always something new to try. Take the Lucky Charms donut for an example. This epic ball donut is deep-fried, stuffed with marshmallow and covered in vanilla fudge icing before they top it with that all-important Lucky Charms cereal to create a sweet and sticky treat like nothing you’ve had before."

"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."

"Krispy Kreme is an internationally beloved donut shop and you can get a taste of their famous sweet treats in Trinity Leeds. They’ve been perfecting their Original Glazed Donut for over 75 years, so you can bet it’s lip-smackingly good. Sweet, crisp and fluffy in all the right places, take a bite and it almost melts in your mouth."

"Whether it’s a single doughnut or a sharers dozen box, no matter what type of doughnut you love, Krispy Kreme has them."

"If you’re a big fan of speakeasy-style venues, then you’ll love The Backroom Leeds!. Split into multiple rooms and levels, this unique venue is located beneath the iconic railway bridge on Call Lane right in the heart of the city. Hosting bustling club nights on the weekend that last throughout the night ‘til the early morning, this is the place to head to if you’re looking for a stylish venue and an amazing cocktail menu that’s second to none!"

"A luxe late-night joint where incredible cocktails are paired with non-stop club classics, The Backroom is just the ticket for those after something a little more dressed up. Shake and shimmy to sweet contemporary sounds, while sipping your way through the creative drinks menu."

"The venue said they will reopen at one minute past midnight, and warned that tickets were selling fast. Follow Best in Leeds. To find out more about what’s on in Leeds and Yorkshire visit our Best in Leeds Facebook page."

"Grays Court is housed in a beautiful historic building next to the York Minister. It was once the former home of King James I. In 10 minutes walk you arrive at York landmarks such as the York Museum and Gardens, the Theatre Royal and York Cathedral. Grays Court has 10 elegant rooms with antique furnishings, garden views and a private bathroom."

"In the city's premier location, between the Minster and the walls, with a history dating back to the 11th century plus a discreet entrance, this hotel ticks the boxes for atmosphere and privacy. The rooms are quietly elegant; the food is quietly confident."