Historic Sites in Pollington

"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."

"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."

"With breathtaking views of York, Clifford’s tower is an important stop off for anyone new to the city. Originally part of York Castle, the tower was built by William the Conqueror and has been used as both a prison and a royal mint."

"There's precious little left of York Castle except for this evocative stone tower, a highly unusual four-lobed design built into the castle's keep after the original one was destroyed in 1190 during anti-Jewish..."

"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"

"Adventurous couples can tackle the tree tops at Temple Newsam. Be bold and go for the tree top challenge – the hardest Go Ape course. Your unbreakable love and unwavering support (did we just say that?) will get you through once you’re 15 meters above the ground."

"Abbey House promises to take you back in time to the Victorian Era with its recreated Victorian streets and residents wandering around in Victorian dress. Visit Stephen Harding Gate for the 19th century equivalent to a modern high streetoffering you a unique shopping experience and, after some retail therapy, stop off at the Hark to Rover Inn to grab a pint at a recreated model of a Victorian drinking house. Explore the social division of the poor and rich as you experience life both in poverty and as a rich pawnbroker in the residential districts."

"You wouldn’t know it from the outside, but inside Abbey House Museum you’ll find a recreated Victorian street. Explore the high street, with its traditional shops full of old artefacts, nip into the Rover Inn to see what a pub was like back in the day and even call by the undertakers for a slightly more grisly glimpse of the past. Don’t miss the Childhood Galleries where you can marvel at 19th century toys, with everything from dolls’ houses to penny slot machines."

"The Abbey House Museum, once the Great Gate House to Kirkstall Abbey, contains meticulously reconstructed shops and houses that evoke Victorian Leeds, plus rotating exhibitions mostly aimed at kids."

"Experience life in a cold war bunker and discover the history of the volunteers who would have played a vital role in ensuring Britain could withstand a nuclear attack. Through a one hour guided tour, you’ll learn about this recent period in British history and how the people of York prepared for the threat of nuclear war."

"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."

"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."

"Are you looking to view an estate house with both a history and a twist?. That’s exactly what Harewood House has to offer to you, while constantly striving to stay relevant it also manages to keep a firm grip on the past, with some of the finest art collections in England. The short trip out of the city centre shouldn’t put you off, buses run directly to and from Leeds City Centre every 15 minutes, and you’ll even get the chance to see penguins, flamingos and parrots."

"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."

"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."

"Lotte Inch Gallery first came to York in 2012 in the form of a pop-up art gallery space – but many glorious years later and after several small pop-up exhibitions, the gallery moved from its previous space near York Minster to its current location in bustling 14 Bootham. The eponymous Lotte comes from a background in Art History and Heritage, having worked for The National Trust; Scampston Hall and Gardens; and The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery at The University of Leeds, amongst others – making her a mastermind when it comes to art. The gallery is the ideal place to discover new artists, designers and makers, alongside established names and figures, hoping to be a “welcoming and inclusive place with a regularly changing programme of exhibitions."

"Blossom Street Gallery, which makes its home in the historic Micklegate quarter of the city, was conceived to bring local artists and creatives together in a central space and provide an opportunity for Yorks’ residents and visitors to enjoy local artwork. Blossom Street hosts regular exhibitions with notable artists, predominantly from Yorkshire but sometimes from a little further afield. They aim to offer art which everybody can enjoy – from original pieces, to prints, to handcrafted and design-led gifts and cards, and innovative framing options and supplies."

"Holiday Inn Garforth is a spa hotel near Leeds which is fantastic for those who want to stay on the outskirts of the busy city. Book one of the lovely rooms here for your stay and you will receive compli­men­tary access to this Leeds spa’s You Fit Health Club!. Make the most of the swimming pool, sauna, and steam room to relax, or reach your health goals in the fitness suite, fully equipped gym and even some fitness classes."

"Valhalla is York’s only traditional Viking pub and just being there is an entire experience in itself!. You’ll find people drinking strong, strange ales and mead out of a real Viking drinking horn!. The do also serve regular beers, lagers and spirits as well, but no cocktails unfortunately!"

"What would your journey to the north of England be without the opportunity to eat the traditional English breakfast, or fry up, or collection of things that shouldn’t go together but do. Depending on where in England you are you could hear one of those two first items, although many of you will be thinking the latter upon trying one. Moments Café provides one of the best English breakfasts you can find with a family atmosphere."

"There is a great deal on Groupon currently for a hot drink and all day brunch for two at Patisserie Valerie for £14.95. Options include the Farmhouse breakfast: two free-range eggs, back bacon, Cumberland sausage, tomatoes, a flat mushroom, baked beans and bloomer toast, Brioche French toast: a choice of frosted mixed berries and maple syrup or sweet-cure bacon with maple syrup or banana and cinnamon, Eggs Benedict served on a brioche bun and many more. See the Groupon deal here."