Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in Yorkshire
"Henry VIII had a great impact on Britain’s history, but did you know he was partially responsible for Kirkstall Abbey?. The 12th century monastery was disestablished by Henry in the 16th century, but is still standing today and is easily one of the most picturesque landmarks in Leeds. View this post on Instagram"
"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 is another one of the cities most famous attractions. Whilst taking photos from outside of the tower is completely free of charge, ticket fees do apply if you wish to go inside. Once inside, you can check out some great views of York from the top."
"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"
"Grandeur is the order of the day at Temple Newsam, with a huge stately home dominating the impressive grounds to the east of the city, which were initially designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. The gorgeous gardens are impressive enough by themselves, but you can also entertain the little ones with a trip to Home Farm or the brand new Go Ape course for the adventurous ones among you!"
"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."
"Another impressive country house close to the city centre, Temple Newsam may not have penguins, but its grounds are particularly lovely to walk around. Time your visit for spring to coincide with meeting the new born lambs and piglets at Home Farm. Temple Newsam | © Tim Green / Wikimedia"
"This summer holidays Abbey House Museum will welcome some of your favourite fairy tale characters and creatures as the Victorian Streets are taken over by them!. Captain Hook has managed to stop the clocks ticking in the pub, a marvellous pumpkin patch has sprung up in the middle of the street and there are a mischief of magical mice helping Cinderella make a ball gown before the clock strikes twelve!. You can even pick up a bumper craft bag to take home filled with activities to keep the kids entertained."
"During the Victorian Period, the Industrial Revolution changed Britain, turning it from a rich but agricultural nation to the modern country it is today. Abbey House Museum captures these exciting times, recreating shops, pubs and houses from the 19th century. Wander through Victorian streets and see how the people of Leeds lived two hundred years ago, and see if you can spot what has changed and what’s stayed the same."
"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."
"Harewood House, seat of the Earl of Harewood, is a magnificent Georgian country house that took 30 years to build and was completed in 1771. Just eight miles north of Leeds, this spectacular home has interiors designed by Robert Adam and includes fine wall and ceiling paintings by Angelika Kauffmann and furniture by renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale. As well as an outstanding collection of porcelain, it has a large number of valuable works by the likes of Reynolds, Gainsborough, and El Greco."
"There is so much to do and see at Harewood House, that you may struggle to fit it all in!. This is the perfect family day out with both fun indoor and outdoor activities on site. A 25-minute drive from the hotel, this 18th century house is a popular attraction in Leeds, featuring over 100 acres of beautiful gardens containing a wide range of plants from all over the world."
"This place is genuinely spectacular, with lots of history to discover. It was built between 1759 and 1771 for wealthy plantation owner Edwin Lascelles. Since then, it’s not lost any of its splendour, with members of the Royal Family even living here in years gone by."
"Cartwright Hall Art Gallery is a leading regional art gallery, situated in the beautiful surroundings of Lister Park. The gallery has been home to a variety of prints for more than a hundred years. Where they are proud to housework by William Blake, Francisco Goya, and Walter Sickert – all master printmakers."
"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Green Giant used under CC BY 4.0. Cartwright Hall is Bradford’s municipal art gallery, that offers an energising array of contemporary exhibits. The collections showcase 19th and 20th-century British craftsmanship, with global contemporary prints and South Asian works."
"As a Grade I listed building under the English Heritage Registry, the Chantry Chapel of St.Mary is an ancient and beautiful monument to Wakefield’s history. Although it is only open at specific times, making the extra effort to see this place is definitely worth it. Although small, many have praised it for its beautiful stained windows, its enriching history, and the complimentary tea and biscuits along with it!"
"With five galleries showcasing a range of archaeological treasures as well as displays of rare animals, birds and fossils, the Yorkshire Museum also boasts fabulous greenery, making it the perfect place for tourists to enjoy a relaxing, scenic walk. Established during the 1830s, the historical gardens are famous for their wonderful selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs. With botanical gardens comprised of 10 acres, Yorkshire Museum Gardens is the ideal place to visit for a relaxing retreat."
"Housed in a majestic stone building with pillars reminiscent of the Parthenon in Greece, sits one of the best collections of archaeology and geology in Europe. Ranging from prehistoric natural history, through ancient Roman treasure and up toward the modern-day, this is a great early stop on your exploration of York. Arm yourself with knowledge of the history that makes this city so special, and watch as every subsequent attraction comes to life with your new understanding."
"Visiting the Museum Gardens is yet another free activity to do in York. On a nice, summer’s day you can bring a picnic here and relax on a bench or the grass. You can also explore the ruins of the medieval St. Mary’s Abbey, or simply visit The Yorkshire Museum."
"Thomas Atkinson, an 18th century English architect, is famous for remaking the Bishopthorpe Palace in York in the Gothic Revival style. Though a rather influential figure of his time, very little is known about Atkinson's private life. His house, located at 20 St. Andrewgate, is one of the sparse evidences of his life in York."
"Part of the Jorvik group, this attraction is an introduction to archaeology for kids. It’s suitable for all ages. My toddler enjoyed the under 5’s play area on the second floor whilst my 5 year old did some stained glass painting."
"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."