Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in North Yorkshire
"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."
"We talk about Kirkstall Abbey a lot, but it’s only because it really is very special. Built sometime around 1152, this ancient abbey was inhabited by monks for almost four centuries, until Henry VIII closed all of the monasteries down. There’s so much history here, and while wandering around you can really begin to imagine what the abbey was like almost 1000 years ago, when it was first built."
"It’s not just about shops and bars, there’s plenty of beautiful outdoor places in Leeds to photograph. Make sure you take the time to head slightly out of the city centre and visit Kirkstall Abbey to wander around the old ruins and capture amazingly atmospheric photos. Time your visit for a misty day for the best photo opportunities."
"Clifford’s Tower is one of York’s most iconic landmarks, and is largely all that remains of the eminent York Castle. Over its thousand year history, Clifford’s Tower has operated in a number of different functions, housing everything from kings to criminals, cannons to cows. Constructed by William the Conqueror in 1086, the first Clifford’s Tower was a wooden structure placed high on the motte that still stands today."
"Perched atop a grassy motte is Clifford’s Tower, which is one of the last remaining parts of York Castle. Originally built out of wood by the Normans, it was reinforced and rebuilt out of stone in the thirteenth century and the sturdy keep is now a popular tourist attraction in York. Wrecked by a massive explosion in 1684, its hollow, gutted interior was later used as both a prison and treasury."
"Clifford’s Tower, a semi-ruined 13th-century remnant of York Castle, is also one of the few Norman relics in a city dominated by Viking influence. Nowadays, Clifford’s Tower is one of the most popular and emblematic sights in York, and the panoramic views from the tower’s ramparts make it an excellent starting point for first-time visitors to historic York."
"This much-beloved watering hole is the sister bar to one of Leeds’ oldest pub, Whitelocks. Whilst the former is the place to head for the more classic ales, Turks Head is the more modern choice, with a plethora of interesting craft ales, gins, and cocktails. The beer garden which sits in the alleyway just off Briggate is lively and atmospheric all year round, with plenty of seating, and canopies with heaters for those unpredictable British summer days."
"In the secluded valley of the River Rye about 3 miles west of Helmsley, amid fields and woods loud with birdsong, stand the magnificent ruins of Rievaulx Abbey (ree-voh). The extensive remains give a wonderful sense of the size and complexity of the community that once lived here, and their story is fleshed out in a series of fascinating exhibits in a new museum. There's also a cafe with floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terrace from which to gawp at the ruins."
"Hosted in a Grade II listed Victorian building, The Lost & Found is a Victorian haven of antique furnishings and botanical cocktails. Head over for a weekend brunch or midweek dinner and tuck into the likes of beef ragu arancini and grilled seabream, before hunting down their secret den that's so decadent it would make Oscar Wilde proud."
"A Victorian-themed den with a sun-drenched terrace, The Lost & Found is a top choice for botanical cocktails and European fare. Housed within an impressive building and with menus suited for vegans, veggies and carnivores alike, this restaurant and bar is ideal for catch-ups with mates and romantic date nights."
"You have two different options to choose from here – their buttermilk pancakes come topped with sweet ‘n’ sticky stewed apple and cinnamon or you can try their vanilla-poached strawberry topping, which comes sprinkled with pistachio and smothered in maple syrup. If you’re lucky, you might even be treated to a third, ever-changing option on their specials menu. Olive & Rye, 18-20 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF."
"This cosy rustic cafe located in the iconic Queens Arcade serves quality ingredients, the best freshly baked bread and lovingly made coffees. A delicious variety of savoury and sweet plates are on offer for brunchers, including homemade granola, mushroom benedict and buttermilk pancakes finished with your choice of toppings. Daily specials are also on offer alongside their tasty menu every day of the week."
"What: This rustic-chic café with wooden bench seating and scatter cushions provides a cosy start to the day. The breakfast menu features the indulgent likes of French toast topped with crème fraiche and blueberry compote, as well as an elevated take on a full English which includes crispy pork belly and sourdough toast. Where: 18-20 Briggate, LS1 6LF"
"Located just a stone’s throw from Ripon is The Black A Moor Inn – a family-run pub and restaurant with bed and breakfast facilities. It boasts roaring open fires, comfortable seating and a menu of traditional homecooked grub. As they are passionate about using fresh local produce, their menu changes regularly but it’s always served alongside a range of real Yorkshire ales."
"Situated in Bridge Hewick, The Black a Moor Inn is within easy driving distance of Ripon and offers a tour desk, meeting rooms and a ticket service. It also provides a garden."
"I’ve honestly lost count the amount of times I’ve raved about Cosy Club on my blog and Instagram, but it truly is my favourite place to eat in York!. Cosy Club have such a vast array of choices on their menus; from salads to sandwiches, to tapas and burgers, Cosy Club really have thought of it all when it comes to their extensive menu. Not only that, but it’s also got the most amazing interior and decor and is without a doubt my number 1 recommendation of places to eat and drink in York!"
"Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as having dedicated kids, vegan and gluten free menus. 19-22 Fossgate, York YO1 9TAT: 01904 395056"
"Saltaire village was a planned community built by Titus Salt between 1850 and 1875 to house the workers at his new mill. The houses and facilities offered a ..."