Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Askwith

"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."

"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."

"Clifford’s Tower offers stunning views of the city from it’s vantage point on top of a mound. The tower is what’s left of the York Castle which was built by William the Conqueror. 1 mile(s) from the Minster.Tower St, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA, United Kingdom"

"The tower stands high next to York Castle Museum with views over York. Clifford's Tower was built at the Eye of York, a defensive position between the River Ouse and River Foss. Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror to control the North of England."

"This park, which is four miles northeast of Leeds city centre, offers 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woodland and gardens. If it's really cold you can warm up in the indoor Tropical World, which has butterflies, birds, reptiles and even meerkats, or the early 19th century Mansion House which has a cafe. The car park is accessible via Wetherby Road, LS8 2JZ."

"Next, there’s no better way to escape the busy city than going for a stroll in Roundhay Park. The grand park covers over 700 acres and is just 3 miles north of Leeds City centre. Undeniably, it is one of the most popular parks in Leeds."

"Rodley Nature Reserve is a nature reserve dedicated to bringing wetland wildlife back in the area of Leeds. With regular sightings of different birds like owls, kingfishers, kestrels, lapwings and many others, you would certainly enjoy traversing the different paths that they have and be closer to nature through the amazing sights that they offer. A hidden gem, this wetland reserve can be considered a haven that offers a relaxing tour and walks around the area."

"Four miles west of the city centre, on the banks of the River Aire is this wetland nature reserve. With a lagoon, scrubland, wet grassland and reed beds it's a great place to stroll and spot waterfowl, birds of prey and other nature. Access it via Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1HP."

"Perfect for a nice walk to escape the city’s frenzy for a few hours.Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1HP"

"Located between Leeds and Wetherby, Bramham Park is the site of the iconic Leeds Festival which occurs every August bank holiday weekend. If you don’t hold tickets to the festival, visit during the rest of the year to explore the 18th Century manor house and its sprawling grounds."

"The Yorkshire Wine School organise gin tasting classes in York on set dates so do check their website. This does mean that there is no minimum party number as lots of people attend at once."

"For a gallery with a real “homely” feel, look no further than Kentmere House. Kentmere’s original art is displayed in multiple rooms of a fine Victorian house overlooking York’s famous Knavesmire race-course, welcoming visitors in with a friendly smile and welcoming atmosphere. The house and gallery is owned by Ann and David Petherick, which opened after Ann moved to York from Suffolk in 1979 and was amazed to find that there was no contemporary gallery."

"In a city with the biggest student population outside of London, it would be absurd for the prevailing university culture not to have some influence on the art scene. Housed within the University of Leeds campus in the Grade II listed Art Deco Parkinson Building, The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery showcases a mix of contemporary art as well as works from the university’s special collections department spanning over 200 years. The gallery expectedly supports and promotes its students’ and its graduates’ work, in addition to displays from local artists and those from further afield."

"You don’t have to be a student to enjoy the art of The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery at the University of Leeds. Since 1970, it’s been home to the University Art Collection, which features ceramics, photographs and sculpture. That’s not all – you can see an incredible selection of British and European paintings, drawings and prints from 17th century to the present day."

"One of the most remarkable constructions in Leeds, the Gothic style building was designed by the famous Robert Dennis Chantrell and got consecrated in 1841. In 2012, there was a rechristening and it became known as St. Peter’s and before that, Leeds Parish Church. Alongside the impressive look, visitors stay in awe of the Saxon cross and the vibrant mosaics right behind alter that represent 12 Apostles."

"Leeds Minster belongs to the Church of England foundation and holds a lot of architectural and liturgical significance. Although the present structure is a Gothic Revival one, dating from the mid-19th century, yet its site bespeaks of church presence ever since 7th century. The church is dedicated to Saint Peter and has been designated a grade I listed building by&...Read more"

"Our Minster is beautiful inside and out, with beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows. Not only does this grade I listed building look amazing, it sounds it too, being home to the renowned Minster Choir. The church even had their own rugby league team once upon a time!"

"Located between Leeds and Wetherby, Bramham Park is the site of the iconic Leeds Festival which occurs every August bank holiday weekend. If you don’t hold tickets to the festival, visit during the rest of the year to explore the 18th Century manor house and its sprawling grounds."

"Tucked away down a cobbled side street just round the corner from York’s famous Shambles, this modern, laid-back restaurant and bar (plus tiny attic cinema with big comfy armchairs) makes a great pit stop for breakfast, reasonably priced lunch or late night nosh. Vegetarians, vegans and people with dietary allergies are well catered for and there are plenty of non-meat sausages and vegetable stir fries in among the homemade pies and bangers and mash. On the odd occasion York gets hot enough, there’s a pretty, covered walled garden in the courtyard."

"This courtyard complex houses a bar, a cocktail lounge and even a private cinema, along with an appealing 1st-floor restaurant serving a menu of crowd-pleasing classics like sausage and mash, Sunday roasts and..."

"I’ve honestly lost count the amount of times I’ve raved about Cosy Club on my blog and Instagram, but it truly is my favourite place to eat in York!. Cosy Club have such a vast array of choices on their menus; from salads to sandwiches, to tapas and burgers, Cosy Club really have thought of it all when it comes to their extensive menu. Not only that, but it’s also got the most amazing interior and decor and is without a doubt my number 1 recommendation of places to eat and drink in York!"

"The inside of this bar and restaurant is full of grandeur and eccentricities – and the food tastes as good as it looks!. Serving brunch until 5pm every day, here you can just keep going, and going, and going."

"The main club in Harrogate located on the first floor there are two bars and a main dance floor, as well as plenty of seating booths around the outside. Generally contemporary dance, although varies during the week with some indie rock and classic retro nights. Open until late on a weekend."