Mentioned by BSC (EN)
A Guide to the Best Museums in York | York Attractions
"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."
"Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH - Visit now. Founded in 1152, Kirkstall Abbey on the bank of the River Aire is one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian monastery in Britain. Its dramatic ruins have inspired artists such as JMW Turner over the centuries, and provided the perfect setting for Yorkshire’s Gothic Film Festival in 2013."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"With over 700 acres of paw-pounding space, Roundhay Park is one of the UK’s largest urban green spaces–making it a top hit among dog owners in Leeds. Its asset is the variety of terrain: there’s open space for ball-chucking, woodland trails rich in sniffing opportunities (because sometimes a good boy needs more than bottoms), Waterloo Lake for hot-day dips, a steep climb up to the castle if a proper calf-stretch is required, plus the ‘secret gorge walk’–a 2.7km route to find a beautiful hidden waterfall. Look out for dog-themed events, too, such as the Yorkshire Dachshund Group’s annual Christmas sausage walk."
"One of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park sprawls over more than 700 acres and welcomes more than a million visitors each year. Four miles (or an 18-minute car journey) from the city centre, the park offerd lakes, woodlands, formal gardens, cafes, two playgrounds and Tropical World. There is also the grand Mansion, now an event space for weddings and corporate events."
"Here’s one of the best farms in Leeds for kids, but with a difference. Hope Pastures is all about rescuing and rehabilitating horses, ponies and donkeys. After they’ve managed to do that, they let people come and visit the animals seven days a week, learning all about them and how tp look after them as you go."
"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."
"Imagine Spa at Dower House in Knaresborough, offers a truly tranquil spa experience in relaxing surroundings. They have a number of spa experience packages on offer, ranging in price from £25 for two hours in the thermal suite to £145 for a full day of pampering including two hours of treatments and three hours in the Thermal Suite. Experiences at Imagine Spa fall under three categories: Discover, Enrich or Induldge."
"FREE WI-FI The Unicorn is one of Ripons oldest and most historic inns.The hotel reopened in April 2011, following a £2.1million refurbishment and is part of the JD Wetherspoon hotel group. It is the largest building on the market place and has featured…"
"Situated amongst local tourist attractions, The Unicorn Hotel Wetherspoon is a 10-minute walk from from Ripon Cathedral. It also offers a 24-hour reception, wireless internet and a wake-up service."
"The last arcades to be built in Leeds during the Victorian period were the Cross and County arcades (now known as the Victoria Quarter) and they were built by theatre architect Frank Matcham. Designed to stand out from the drab, industrial buildings already present in the city, County Arcade features marble columns, cast-iron arches and colourful mosaics. The Victoria Quarter in Leeds is now home to some of the most exclusive shops in the city."
"Victoria Leeds is a fusion of both shopping centre and leisure area with the combination of Victoria Quarter and Victoria Gate shopping centre. A prime place to visit, this area offers different attractions that would provide you with a fun time and an enjoyable day. If you are out on a shopping spree, you can find here different shops and speciality stores for technology, health and beauty, toys and gifts, jewellery and different home items."
"If you’re a huge fan of curry, this is the place to check out. Jorvik Spice is best known for being a curry house as they are said to serve some of the best curries in town. The restaurant also offers other Indian cuisines, particularly of Bengali origin, which is perfect for foodies who are both hungry and extra adventurous."