Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Barwick in Elmet

"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."

"Beloved by locals looking to escape the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey is the ruins of a Cistercian monastery set within a public park on the banks of a picturesque river. The abbey was built in the early 12th century by monks who had left their previous home in Barnoldswick. The ruins are remarkably well preserved and are free for visitors to wander around and admire."

"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 …"

"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 (also known as York Castle) has been at the heart of York for many centuries now. It’s endured a fair few battles and what remains of the fortified complex that once consisted of prisons, castles and law courts, is now a ruinous castle. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee, where you’ll see panoramic views of the Vale of York."

"There's precious little left of York Castle except for this evocative stone tower, a highly unusual four-lobed design built into the castle's keep after the original one was destroyed in 1190 during anti-Jewish..."

"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."

"Roundhay Park is one of the most popular attractions in Leeds. With over 700 acres of land, the area is a fusion of woodlands, lakes, formal gardens, cafes and playgrounds. It also houses Tropical World, a place where you can experience different exotic animals like meerkats, monkeys, crocodiles, butterflies and many others."

"It is set in 17 acres of lovely Yorkshire countryside, and within easy reach of Leeds and Bradford with wide car and coach parking. Open 7 days a week with an outstanding selection of plants plus stunning gifts and home decorations, gorgeous outdoor furniture and all you need to keep your garden looking great each and every season, Tong is set to inspire you."

"Finally, this indoor attraction is home to one of the largest collections of tropical plants anywhere in the UK, and a whole host of exotic creatures including crocodiles, butterflies, piranhas, and meerkats. The different areas will take you on a thrilling journey through mangroves, desert and rainforest, exploring the habitats of some amazing animals. The rainforest canopy and waterfall areas are a particular highlight."

"Tropical World at Roundhay Park is one of Leeds’ most popular family attractions which offers a unique opportunity to explore the habitats of the Tropics and other hot places from around the world. It includes jungle, desert, nocturnal and aquatic habitats with plants and animals such as crocodiles, lemurs, butterflies, bats, snakes and a gorgeous family of meerkats complete with babies!"

"Fitting in perfectly with our list is Tropical World, which is actually situated in Roundhay Park. This is fantastic for you, not only is it a popular attraction but it will also offer you some shelter from the weather should it turn bad. There is a small admission fee of £5 for adults, or £2.50 for children, but it’s more than worth it for what you’ll be seeing."

"Once known as the hangout for Leeds' goths and emo kids, the Grade I listed Victorian Corn Exchange is now home to a variety of boutiques and independent stores, selling fashion, gifts, Yorkshire produce and more. There are also cafes where you can enjoy and coffee and soak in the impressive architecture, regular craft and gift fairs and the Little Leeds Beer House, a hidden gem for real and craft ale fans looking for something different. Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR. Open Monday-Wednesday 10am-6pm, Friday-Saturday 10am-6pm and Sundays 10.30am-4.30pm."

"One of the most notable landmarks in Leeds is also one of the most impressive buildings. The Corn Exchange, designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, has been at the centre of the city for more than 150 years. A key trading post in its heyday, the façade of this dominating circular building is certainly impressive with its many windows, sandstone base and iron-crested dome."

"A grade I listed building, the Corn Exchange was built in 1863 and was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, the architect behind Leeds Town Hall. The building is now a boutique shopping centre home to independent retailers and food outlets."

"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."

"Every year Leeds Valentine's Fair brings some thrills and spills to the Valentine's Day and the Februiary half-term holidays, with more than 70 attractions on offer. In 2020 the fair moved from it's previous base at Elland Road, next to Leeds United's ground, to Woodhouse Moor in Hyde Park, Leeds. This year's fair is running now until Sunday, February 23."

"Covering 27 hectares, with seven tree-lined paths taking you into the centre, Woodhouse Moor is one of the finest parks in Leeds. John Atkinson created it for the residents of Woodhouse Square in 1840 and it became a public green space in 1905. It’s a popular spot with walkers, picnickers and skaters, but that’s not the only reason to go."

"Thomas Atkinson, an 18th century English architect, is famous for remaking the Bishopthorpe Palace in York in the Gothic Revival style. Though a rather influential figure of his time, very little is known about Atkinson's private life. His house, located at 20 St. Andrewgate, is one of the sparse evidences of his life in York."

"Ripley Castle near Harrogate is a child friendly estate which offers regular castle tours especially for children. The children’s tours are a child friendly length of 45 minutes but there are also adult tours available. The extensive grounds of the estate include a deer park, a small children’s play area and a pretty walled kitchen garden so are ideal for a good run around."

"Very close to our Yorkshire Dales distillery in Kettlesing, Ripley Castle is among the best things to see in the Yorkshire Dales. Over 700 years old; the castle has lakes, a deer park, walled gardens, hothouses and more to explore. The grounds are particularly attractive in Spring, when they’re in full bloom."

"Ripley Castle and Gardens, near Harrogate, is an historic attraction open to the public all year round and makes for a fascinating and entertaining day out, in a beautiful location."

"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 brand-new YO1 Beach Club is a fun and safe urban oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, with peaceful views of the river and passing boats. Located in Tower Gardens, next to the River Ouse, we are open every day from 24th June to 5th September, from 9.30am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday, and 9.00am – 6.00pm Saturday and Sunday. The Club comprises a wood-panelled covered café and veranda with a boardwalk entrance across a beach area with picnic tables."

"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."

"Situated in the very centre of this exciting city, Headrow House is a fantastic all-day bar and nightclub that draws inspiration from its history as a former textile mill whilst maintaining a cosy and modern feel with its German beerhall-style seating. Spread out over multiple floors, this venue hosts DJ sets on club nights at the weekend and makes for a great backdrop to an awesome night. Spread out over four floors, this huge space even has two roof terraces where you can enjoy some fresh air and views of the rest of the city!"

"With successful nights in Manchester and Nottingham, Group Therapy has made quite a mark since October 2016. They’ve quickly become one of the best places to watch comedy in Leeds. You can see them in their home at Headrow House, where they put on stellar performances from the likes of Brendon Burns, Tony Law, Simon Munnery, John Kearns, Andrew O’Neill and Fern Brady already – and there are plenty more to come."

"When it comes to alfresco dining and sunshine drinks, the team behind Headrow House, Belgrave, et al, have most definitely raised the bar, quite literally. Their rooftop ‘beer garden’ is one of the go-to destinations when the sun makes an appearance. With a stellar selection of craft beers and cocktails together with 2020’s foodie revelation ‘Spitz Kebabs’ from Ox Club."

"A warm & friendly welcome at this authentic Thai restaurant with amazing cocktails & superb curries. 29 Yorkersgate, Malton YO17 7AA01653 692865tuisofmalton.com"

"Mojo is a quirky bar which hosts all kinds of events, including beer tasting and bands regularly play there. Their gin tasting takes place upstairs in “The Rhum Room” where they’ll give you the low down on the history of the drink before you get stuck in with the gin. They have two packages available, one which lasts an hour and includes canapes (£28.95) and a Platinum package which includes 90 minutes of gin and includes a 2-course meal and bonus gin (£40.)"

"MOJO is a brilliant late-night dive bar specialising in all things cocktails, rum and rock'n'roll. Hit up the Merrion Street hangout and prepare to let your hair down over classic tunes, or check out some live bands while sampling quirky tipples."

"Bad Boy has made a name for itself in recent years thanks to its juicy burgers and they come piled high with all kinds of toppings. For example, the Triple Bad Boy is a beef burger stacked with bacon, pulled pork, Monterey Jack, gherkins, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions and Bad Boy’s signature sauce. You don’t have to get a burger, though."