Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in York, England
"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"
"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."
"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…"
"The finest of Leeds' many lovely churches - and also the city's oldest - is St. John's in New Briggate. Built in 1634, its interior is notable for having two naves, as well as an original Renaissance rood screen, pulpit, and stalls. Other religious sites worth visiting in Leeds include St. Anne's Cathedral, the Roman Catholic cathedral in Cookridge Street (built 1904), and the Georgian Church of Holy Trinity on the riverbank in Boar Lane (1727)."
"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Martin Clark used under CC BY-SA 2.0. Bingley Five-Rise Locks is a staircase lock, on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal of Bingley. As the name infers, a vessel going through the lock is lifted or brought down in five phases."
"This Gujarati restaurant is a favourite amongst Leeds vegetarians thanks to their authentic take on West Indian cuisine. Experience on their exciting thalis (perfect for trying an assortment of different curries) or opt for a delicious vegetable or pulse based dish served with a selection of traditional side dishes. If you’re not sure what to pick, opt for the Hansa’s surprise and let the kitchen bring out an array of starters, mains and deserts for you to try for just £20 per person for a party of four."
"72/74 North Street, Leeds LS2 7PN Hansa has been serving vegeratian Indian food in Leeds since 1986. Her menu originates from Gujarat, on the west coast of India. Hansa has plenty of vegan options on the menu and even has her own cookbook."
"This award-winning restaurant has been serving up vegetarian Indian home cooking since 1986. Vegan items are plentiful and clearly marked on the menu, including wickedly spicy curries, tempting sides and creamy desserts."
"Another small spot (it might be worth booking ahead) with mouth-watering vegetarian food, Roots & Fruits has been a favourite of vegetarians in Leeds for 25 years, tucked inside the beautiful Grand Arcade. Choose from a variety of classic dishes such as veggie lasagne, falafel or a variety of vegetarian burgers, alongside a rotating array of specials and the taste medley of the jerk jackfruit. If you’re not feeling particularly peckish, this is also a great spot to pop in for a light bite or a delicious cake and a cup of coffee."
"This versatile veggie restaurant serves up tempting vegan dishes including nachos with chilli and vegan cheese and a full-on cooked breakfast with scrambled tofu and vegan sausages."
"Set inside a large and elegant building, an £8 million development back in 2015 has seen York Art Gallery rise to one of the best regional galleries in the country. Boasting 7 exhibition spaces across 2 floors and an outdoor Artist’s garden, there’s plenty to see for the art lovers visiting York, including an internationally significant collection of ceramics spreading across 2 galleries and temporary exhibitions that mean there is always something fresh to see. Keep your eyes out for works by hugely famous artists such as Turner and Hockney."
"As well as an impressive collection of Old Masters, York Art Gallery possesses works by LS Lowry, Pablo Picasso, Grayson Perry, David Hockney, and the controversial York artist William Etty who, in the 1820s, was..."
"Wawin Chinese Restaurant has something on its takeaway menu for everyone. There are gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, and it serves both Chinese and Korean dishes. The portion sizes are generous, and it is open seven days a week."