Mentioned by Fodor's Choice
Sights in 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."
"Grade I listed Kirkstall Abbey sits in leafy grounds and offers a snapshot into the lives of the monks who resided there. Entry to the dramatic ruins is free through the visitor centre, which illustrates the history of the abbey, which was surrendered to Henry VIII during the dissolution of the monasteries. The abbey grounds also host regular farmers markets, open cinema events and Christmas fairs."
"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."
"Family friendly York Castle Museum is centrally situated near Coppergate Shopping Centre – green signs direct you to the ‘Castle Area’. Collections of Costume and Textiles, Military and Social History and a collection on York Castle’s most famous prisoner Dick Turpin, eventually hanged in 1739, all feature in exhibitions. A favourite with children, the recreated Victorian and Georgian rooms here display historic every day items from the collection of North Yorkshire country doctor John Kirk."
"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."
"Roundhay Park is one of the most popular attractions in Leeds. With over 700 acres of land, the area is a fusion of woodlands, lakes, formal gardens, cafes and playgrounds. It also houses Tropical World, a place where you can experience different exotic animals like meerkats, monkeys, crocodiles, butterflies and many others."
"The Victoria Quarter of Leeds is a series of Victorian shopping arcades whose opulent style and extravagance have led them to house some of the most expensive retail stores in Leeds. The County Arcade is perfect for an Instagram shot with its wonderful mosaic floor, gilt designs and marble columns…"
"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."
"This luxurious dessert parlour is the ultimate place for truly stunning and innovative desserts. Even before you order the mouth-watering sweet treats the interior alone will take your breath away. Choose your choice of delectable desserts from the extensive menu which has luxurious gelato, crepes, Belgian waffles or Freshly Baked soft and gooey cookie dough and luscious sundaes."
"As someone with a sweet tooth, this list would not be complete without a dessert recommendation. Their outlet on Great Horton Road is just a few minutes away from the campus gym, which sounds to me like great motivation to work out!. They offer a wide selection of waffles, cookie dough, shakes and of course, gelato."
"At Crepe Affaire, it’s all about traditional French pancakes. Expect a host of classic combinations, both sweet and savoury, like cinnamon or hunter’s chicken. But it’s their more creative options that demand your attention."
"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 can have the perfect Leeds day out at Abbey House Museum. It sits opposite Kirkstall Abbey, so you can explore the famous ruins and make the most of the handsome park it sits in, then dive into the museum. When the Abbey still stood proud, from 1152 until Henry VIII had it dissolved in the 16th century, this building was the gate house."
"The Victoria Quarter of Leeds is a series of Victorian shopping arcades whose opulent style and extravagance have led them to house some of the most expensive retail stores in Leeds. The County Arcade is perfect for an Instagram shot with its wonderful mosaic floor, gilt designs and marble columns…"
"White Rose Shopping Centre is a leisure and shopping area in one delivering a fun-filled experience either through their cinema or escape themed park. Not only do they offer a wonderful amusement that is perfect for the whole family, but they also offer different shops that both kids and parents would enjoy. Housing over 12 shops from famous retail brands that are perfect for all types of individuals regardless of gender and age, you would certainly find the best clothing items that are suitable to your distinct fashion taste."
"Few names are as synonymous with quality French food as Raymond Blanc. His Brasserie Blanc restaurants are popular all over the country – and Leeds is no different. Nestled on the edge of the River Aire, it’s a classy affair with exposed brickwork and oodles of character, but the food is the real focus."
"Côte Brasserie serve breakfast and brunch from Saturday to Sunday, and Bank Holidays, from 10am to 2pm. Highlights include a breakfast set menu that involves any cooked breakfast with fresh orange juice or cloudy apple juice and a hot drink of your choice. Options include a full English breakfast, Crepe Complete (pancakes, bacon and comte cheese), Eggs Florentine, Eggs Royal and Eggs Avocado."
"Cote are a French Restaurant that serve brunch on Saturday and Sunday, as well as Bank Holidays, from 10am to 2pm. They serve a full breakfast as well as French classics such as Croque Monsieur and Croque Madame."
"You can do brunch every day until 4pm at any of Manahatta’s three Leeds bars. Their menu is small but perfectly formed – you can have a traditional full English or go for something a little bit different, like their High Line, which sees a trio of pancakes topped with fried chicken, bacon and maple syrup. On the weekend, you can go bottomless between 11am and 3pm – enjoy unlimited prosecco, Aperol Spritz, Bloody Marys or Coors for £25.95."
"Minerva, 29 E Parade, Leeds LS1 5PS, 11 Merrion St, Leeds LS1 6PG and 19 Ash Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3JJ. There are three of the Manahatta bars in Leeds, ‘a glamorous New York inspired cocktail bar with an exciting party vibe.’ The price includes one item from the brunch menu and unlimited Prosecco, bloody marys, Aperol Spritz and pints of Coors. This bottomless brunch offering is available for 90 minutes."
"Expect to choose from a variety of delicious brunch dishes, and in terms of drinks, your options to choose from are the classic prosecco, Bloody Mary, Aperol Spritz or pints of Coors. Bottomless brunch runs until 4 pm, but fear not, because after 4 pm the bottomless party menu kicks in. If you choose the bottomless party option, you’ll be paying a little more at £30.95pp."
"Perhaps one of the most underrated pubs in Leeds, Veritas on Great George Street is, and will always be, a great child-friendly place to eat. Families are warmly welcomed and although there’s no specific kids’ menu, the main menu caters well for young stomachs with nachos, burgers, sandwiches and tempting small plates. Floor to ceiling windows at the front make it a perfect spot for people watching, while the partitioned rooms with fireplaces create cosy little dens to fend off the world outside."
"Most pubs have seriously upped their food game in recent years (thank you, smoking ban) and Veritas combines a tempting range of real and craft ales with an imaginative yet reasonably priced menu. For every steak and ale pie there’s a sea bass and crab tagliatelle, and the burgers never disappoint. Where: 43 Great George Street, Leeds (near LGI)"