Must See Sights and Landmarks in Wrenthorpe Area

"If you want to experience the type of history that can capture your imagination with just how far back it dates, then Kirkstall Abbey is the perfect place for you. It’s one of the most complete medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain today. It also offers a picnic area, and play area for children, but don’t panic if you forget to bring something to eat."

"Few locations can top the spectacular backdrop offered by the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, and with 24 hectares of parkland surrounding it, you can enjoy a romantic stroll before asking that all important question."

"Leeds' most impressive medieval structure is beautiful Kirkstall Abbey, founded in 1152 by Cistercian monks from Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire. These days the city makes good use of it as an atmospheric..."

"Small but perfectly formed, Clifford’s Tower offers, among other things, splendid views across the city and York Minster from its circular platform up high. It also tells an interesting tale, often referred to as York Castle, the site dates back to 1068 when William the Conqueror was busy trying to rid the north of Vikings and built a number of castles on his way. While many battles raged over the centuries (the murky Jewish massacre of 1190 cast a long shadow), York Castle’s role evolved, including stints as a prison and a royal mint."

"Clifford’s Tower is one of York’s most iconic landmarks, and is largely all that remains of the eminent York Castle. Over its thousand year history, Clifford’s Tower has operated in a number of different functions, housing everything from kings to criminals, cannons to cows. Constructed by William the Conqueror in 1086, the first Clifford’s Tower was a wooden structure placed high on the motte that still stands today."

"Abbey House Museum is one of those museums in Leeds which holds a number of activities for the children ranging from descriptive to interactive. This museum was short-listed for the Guardian ‘Kids in Museum family Friendly Award’ in 2011. The museum allows you to go back in time and wander in the Victorian Streets so as to see the life in 19th century Leeds."

"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 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."

"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…"

"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."

"The landmark clock is located at the western end of Thornton’s Arcade. It has wooden sculptures of people and a huge bell. The sculptures are colorful, vibrant, and life-size."

"This Grade I listed Georgian church was nearly lost in the 1950s, but was saved when church officials decided that it was a building of historical and architectural importance. While it’s still a place of worship, Holy Trinity Church is also a lively community space and they put on all manner of events for you to enjoy, including art exhibitions, vintage fairs and live music – the acoustics are fantastic. Holy Trinity Church, Boar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6HW."

"Offers a variety of sandwiches, paninis and jacket potatoes as well as serving breakfast and cakes. Still taking walk-ins where possible but calling and booking advised. 1 Peter Lane, York, York, YO1 8SWT: 01904 863822"

"This little gem is tucked away down Peter Lane, next to Superdrug. But venture down and you’ll discover a friendly and warm cafe, with lots of tasty treats to try. Choose from sandwiches, paninis, breakfasts and more!"

"My final recommendation for the best cafes and coffee shops in York is Gatehouse Coffee – another quirky little café set up in an old Gatehouse atop the city walls. It’s fairly small, but there’s lots of areas to choose to sit, including up a narrow stairwell or on the rooftop terrace to enjoy the views. Staff are really friendly and it’s a great place to start the day – nice and relaxed with seriously yummy coffee."

"When to go: When you get off the train to York with hangry children in tow. What to have: If it’s Sunday, go for a roast, if not, their roasted corn-fed chicken with creamed potato, wild mushrooms and soft herbs is the next best thing. Standing right by York train station, within the Grade II listed Principal Hotel, sits the AA Rosette-awarded Refectory Kitchen."

"The Refectory Kitchen is well known for its commitment to serving scrumptious seasonal dishes. Their Yorkshire Terrier ale-battered haddock to name but one!. The adjoining Chapter House Bar and terrace must not be missed either, serving an impressive selection of wines, spirits, and ales."

"At DIG, you get to discover only the most exciting archaeological artefacts from the 2000 years of history hidden under the streets of York. Our four excavation pits are filled with Roman, Viking, Medieval and Victorian finds, so you can grab a trowel and dig up the clues that show how people lived in these times. DIG, St Saviour's Church, St Saviourgate, York YO1 8NN"

"Under the same management as Jorvik and housed in an atmospheric old church, Dig gives you the chance to be an 'archaeological detective', unearthing the secrets of York's distant past as well as learning..."

"Things to Do, Attractions"