Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Hillam

"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."

"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"

"Located just a short distance out of the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey is beautifully preserved, offering visitors an opportunity to walk through the ruins. The abbey is located beside the River Aire, making it the perfect starting point for a relaxing stroll by the water. Kirkstall Abbey | © Minda / Wikimedia"

"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."

"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."

"To see a fantastic panorama of York and take some great photos, head to the Clifford’s Tower. The entry price is a bit high for what the place has to order. However, it’s excellent for photos that you’re going to take there."

"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."

"While it’s generally perceived to be more of a child’s haven rather than a suitable Instagram location, Rowntree’s Park does in fact have many cute places to grab the perfect shot. During the summer, the park is positively heaving with families and children indulging in picnics and ice creams, and in the winter you’ll often find couples snuggled together, taking a romantic stroll around the park. The little bridges that go over the river and lake in the park make great backdrops for Instagram opportunities, regardless of the time of year."

"Rowntree Park, on the flood plains of the River Ouse, is a myriad of paths and walkways along the river. It was York’s first ever municipal park, presented to the public by sweets company Rowntree & Co to commemorate the 200 members of their staff who died in World War I. If you’re in search of a little exercise during your visit, the park boasts six tennis courts, a skate park, a basketball court, two tennis tables and two bowling greens. The duck pond also makes for an excellent picnicking spot."

"Located by the river to the south of the city centre, Rowntree Park is York’s first municipal park, and boasts a combination of historical features and a multi-functional recreational space. With a performance space and a sculpture play trail as well as children’s play areas and sporting facilities, Rowntree Park has much to offer, and serves as a commemoration to all those members of the company’s staff who lost their lives during World War I. Price: admission is free"

"Completed in 1840, the Grade I-listed building was designed by Joseph Bonomi the Younger and takes its architectural inspiration from Ancient Egypt. The smaller building, with its imposing facade, was based on the Temple of Horus at Edfu, and the larger factory, once the biggest single room in the world, was inspired by the Typhonium at Dendera. It played a major role in the industrial revolution in Leeds, and now it’s set to be given a new lease of life as the home of British Library North."

"Temple Works is a former flax mill in Holbeck built in the Egyptian Revival style by industrialist, John Marshall, between 1836 and 1840. It is the only Grade I listed building in Holbeck. View this post on Instagram"

"Enjoy a little fresh air with an invigorating walk around Chevin Forest Park, a short drive from Leeds overlooking the town of Otley. The walk shows off the best of Yorkshire’s natural scenery, taking in dramatic views, rocky outcrops and moorlands scattered with beautiful purple heather."

"The Georgian-style Mansion House in York is the home of the city's Lord Mayors during their term in office. This is the earliest purpose-built house of this sort still in use – it predates the Mansion House in London by at least 20 years. The foundation stone for the building was laid in 1725, and it was completed seven years later, in 1732."

"Located in the center of the city, the Mansion House is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York. But along with being a home, this historic house is popular with visitors. The Mansion House exhibits an impressive collection of paintings, silver and furniture."

"The pretty suburb of Horsforth has a lot of history behind it. It was once the most populous village in the United Kingdom, in the latter part of the 19 century. On top of that, the village was personally thanked by US President Bill Clinton in 2000 for raising funds to build HMS Aubretia during WWII."

"The development was completed in 2016 as part of the restoration of the historic shopping district around Vicar Lane and the Victoria Quarter. Spanning 53,400m2, it’s the largest premium retail and leisure venue in Northern England and houses a flagship John Lewis along with over 30 other stores. The project was designed by ACME alongside commercial property developer Hammerson and won the Best Shopping Centre at the prestigious MIPIM awards at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, beating off competition from Japan, Hong Kong, and China."

"Victoria Gate shopping centre, one of Leeds’ newest additions, is a fascinating building inspired by Leeds' Victorian heritage and its historic shopping arcades. From the outside, the latticed concrete design is noticeable from miles around. Inside, there’s zigzag patterned stonework, shiny glass and plenty of beautiful natural light."

"Victoria Gate is a modern take on a traditional shopping arcade and a go-to destination for designer shopping in Leeds. You’ll find a range of well-known brands on here. Visit Tommy Hilfiger for preppy mens and womenswear, pop into Peloton for premium sportswear or shop at Calvin Klein for designer underwear."

"Harewood House was built in the 18th century and is one of the Treasure Houses of England. Located just outside Leeds in the heart of Yorkshire, visitors of Harewood House can enjoy art exhibitions, the Rare Bird Garden, Farm Experience and over 100 acres of well-manicured gardens. It is a must on the places to visit in Leeds."

"An 18th century house, home to the Earl and Countess of Harewood, with over 100 acres of stunning grounds to explore. See rare and exotic species in the Bird Garden, and delight the kids with daily feeding sessions of the penguins!. Next make your way to the Adventure Playground."

"The York Cold War Bunker has to be one of the city’s most captivating attractions. Tucked down a quiet residential cul-de-sac, you’ll find the inconspicuous entrance through an industrial-looking bomb-proof door. Go past the decontamination room, and down to the control centre, dormitory, and staff room where, for more than 30 years, this place hummed with activity, staffed by volunteers ready to map and manage the fallout from a nuclear blast."