Historic Sites in Birstwith

"If you’re after a unique place to soak up some sunshine, you must explore this atmospheric example of medieval architecture with the kids on your trip to Leeds. That is to say, a fantastic place for the little ones to run around, these much photographed ruins are surrounded by acres of parkland along the banks of the River Aire. The Visitor Centre delves into the lives of the 12th century monks who lived here and in addition there are seasonal family activities and walking trails to discover too."

"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."

"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"

"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."

"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."

"You’ll have to pay an entrance price for York Castle, but the reward is the best view you’ll see of the city below. The tower itself is also pretty on the outside for a second bonus photo. View this post on Instagram"

"Located about four miles west of Leeds in Aire Valley, Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall is in a magnificent Cistercian house built in 1152. The picturesque remains include a roofless church with a narrow choir and a ruined tower, an almost completely preserved chapterhouse, as well as a refectory, kitchen, and various other buildings. The gatehouse is now part of the Abbey House Museum with its reproduction houses, shops, and workshops illustrating life in Yorkshire through the centuries."

"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."

"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."

"Within easy reach of the town, East Riddlesden Hall is a stunning national trust property which makes for a great day out or even a venue for a special occasion. The current 17th century manor house sits on an estate with roots stretching back to the 7th century. Enjoy the house, tearoom, and grounds of this beautiful spot."

"East Riddlesden Hall is a 17th-century manor house in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England, now owned by the National Trust. The hall was built in 1642 by a wealthy Halifax clothier, James Murgatroyd. The hall is a Grade I listed building."

"The Georgian-style Mansion House in York is the home of the city's Lord Mayors during their term in office. This is the earliest purpose-built house of this sort still in use – it predates the Mansion House in London by at least 20 years. The foundation stone for the building was laid in 1725, and it was completed seven years later, in 1732."

"Located in the center of the city, the Mansion House is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York. But along with being a home, this historic house is popular with visitors. The Mansion House exhibits an impressive collection of paintings, silver and furniture."

"One of the city's more unusual puddings, the Wowbun at Almost Famous pays homage to the restaurant's typical fare of burgers. The cinnamon dusted brioche bun houses a chocolate truffle cereal crunch patty (think sugar puffs – sorry, Honey Monster Puffs – cemented together with a whole load of tooth melting chocolate) covered in whipped cream and drizzled with a salted caramel sauce. Not quite as heavy as some of the other offerings, it's still a taste sensation and something to be experienced."

"For those times you’re in need of a no-holds-barred Friday night treat for all the family, consider Almost Famous. It’s by no means the healthiest or cheapest family restaurant in Leeds, but it will certainly ramp the excitement level up to near-hysteria. Burgers are the plat du jour and your young ones can choose between a classic cheeseburger, chicken burger or a brain-boggling burger topped with frazzles, mac and cheese and a strawberry pop tart!"

"12/06/2021: dropped in for a quick bite after having some drinks across the road, should have had seconds. My partner really enjoyed her meal too so we really will make the effort to come here again, dont know why its taken us so long. Also thanks to the team who were so understanding with respect to allergies"

"It’s a bit out of the way, on an industrial estate in Kirkstall, but it’s worth the extra effort – particularly if you like house, techno and garage. In the past, they’ve welcomed the likes of Tre Di Spade, Laurence Guy and Lena Willikens to play on their brand new sound system, while popular nights like Run the Dub and The House Project still call it home. Blueberry Hill Studios, Unit 11, Kirkstall Industrial Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS4 2AZ."

"Savour the best cuisine of both France and Yorkshire at the elegant Le Bistro De Amis. Pop in for a coffee and sweet treat, relish a freshly prepared salad or sandwich or treat a loved one to a meal from their A La Carte offering. Menu specialities include chargrilled venison, pan roasted chicken breast and twice-cooked pork belly."

"During the day, Afterz is the perfect place to get some refreshing ice cream with the kids. But, it’s also a late night cafe, which means you can go in and satisfy your midnight munchies with some incredible ice cream flavours – think Curly Wurly, Toffee Crisp and Skittles. That’s not all, as they do a pretty tempting menu of candy shakes, waffles and majoun, a Moroccan jelly-like sweet."

"This day to late-night cafe bar serves ice cream non-stop, making it just as perfect for midnight munchies as a trip in the day with the little ones. Order an epic knickerbocker glory-style sundae drenched in hundreds and thousands, or simply grab a few scoops in a tub. Flavours include the likes of Curly Wurly, Skittles and Toffee Crisp."

"Let’s face it, it is always a good time for ice cream, but the arrival of spring is just the perfect excuse. Located in Victoria Gate, Amorino is definitely one of the best places for ice cream in Leeds. Chocolate sorbet, blueberry cheesecake, tiramisu … A nice variety of flavours coming in rose-shaped cones."