"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."
"You can learn about its rich history at the visitors’ center. Here you will learn about its deep history and how monks lead their lives. Run by the Cistercian Order, the Abbey also has vast parklands where you and your beloved can take strolls for as long as you want."
"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 was once the site of a timber keep built by William the Conqueror. The current incarnation of Clifford's Tower has looked over the city of York since 1245. Part of York Castle, the tower played a role in the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the English Civil War."
"To see a fantastic panorama of York and take some great photos, head to the Clifford’s Tower. The entry price is a bit high for what the place has to order. However, it’s excellent for photos that you’re going to take there."
"In the galleries at Abbey House Museum, you’ll be transported back to life in Victorian Leeds, strolling recreated 19th century streets. There are shops, a pub and houses, where you can peer inside and see how people lived a century or so ago, as well as regular new exhibitions. You can also discover a whole area on classic toys, including traditional games and Victorian dolls – you can even play some of the original penny slot machines (and buy an old-fashioned penny from the vending machine to do it)."
"The quirky Treasurer’s House lies directly behind York Minster and was extensively renovated in the late 19th century. However, the renovations were not of their time but were designed to emulate historical houses of different eras so that the owner, Frank Green, could ‘authentically’ house his collection of historical artefacts. From the timber frame medieval feel of the grand entrance hall to the Victorian bedrooms, this is a house that will keep you guessing!"
"The Treasurer's House is more than just a museum but also includes a beautiful garden and pleasant cafe. Now owned by the National Trust the Grade I listed property was once the home of the treasurer of York Minister. What we see today is mostly a 17th century house built over a supposedly haunted Roman cellar."
"This historic home, which once housed York Minster's medieval treasures, is an anomaly: in the 19th century it was bought by Yorkshire industrialist Frank Green as a collection of rundown interconnected..."
"Commissioned by the owner of the Old White Swan Inn, Charles Thornton, in 1875, the building of Thornton’s Arcade was opened to the public in May 1878. One of eight arcades built on the city during the era, Thornton’s Arcade is three stories high with a cast-iron Gothic roof . Inside you will find a large clock with a mechanism created by William Potts and Sons of Leeds."
"Leeds has several different shopping arcades which are steeped in history, and Thornton’s Arcade is the oldest. Built in 1878, it connects Leeds’ main shopping street, Briggate, with the street behind. The impressive arcade features neo-gothic architecture, and an adorable Potts’ clock which strikes every 15 minutes."
"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."
"When the queues for Betty’s are just too long (and when aren’t they?) head over to Mama Doreen’s for a (we say better) alternative. Vintage chic is everywhere, and in amongst all that are rows upon rows of sweetshop-style jars and what Doreen’s dubs “proper Yorkshire cupcakes”. The Emporium’s an afternoon tea spot, but that doesn’t mean they’ve neglected their coffee."
"Popular Harrogate tearoom, Mama Doreens Emporium, announced on Tuesday it will be closing its eating area in line with Government guidelines. The James Street business will still be open for takeaway options and will now be offering an alternative afternoon tea service, delivered direct to customers doors."
"The Blue Barbakan is an independent restaurant based on Fossgate serving predominantly traditional Polish cuisine but with an extra multi european twist. We serve dishes strongly influenced by several different countries within Eastern Europe fused with others that have been taken from more of a Western European style. Everything, without exception, is made on the premises."
"Kettlewell is the converging point of several marked walking routes, including the Dales Way. It offers a great stop-off point for some of the best walking in the Dales. In addition, it’s a popular place for cyclists to convene to explore the nearby meandering country lanes and pretty villages."
"The Mad Greek is a no-nonsense eatery with a lively atmosphere that dishes up scrumptious, traditional Greek grub. You can tuck into juicy Chicken Souvlaki Skewers or try the flavourful Keftedes Meatballs cooked in a tomato and feta sauce. But their speciality though is their gyro, which comes stuffed with your choice of chicken, pork or feta & tomato."