Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Naburn

"If you're looking for somewhere with a bit of history, then look no further than Kirkstall Abbey. The giant Gothic building is a former Cistercian monastery which was built in the 12th Century and the sheer scale of the structure is still breathtaking (and award-winning) in this day and age. Nowadays though, it embraces modern life with a monthly market and other events inside the walls of the Abbey, while the open spaces on the banks of the River Aire are the perfect spot to unwind."

"We talk about Kirkstall Abbey a lot, but it’s only because it really is very special. Built sometime around 1152, this ancient abbey was inhabited by monks for almost four centuries, until Henry VIII closed all of the monasteries down. There’s so much history here, and while wandering around you can really begin to imagine what the abbey was like almost 1000 years ago, when it was first built."

"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."

"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."

"Roundhay Park is an emerald jewel in Leeds crown and spreading across 700 acres of land it rivals some of the biggest parks in Europe. In fact, it’s bigger than London’s Hyde Park, actually much bigger at DOUBLE the size – take that London 😜 It’s the perfect place to spend a weekend morning or afternoon with a variety of walks and corners to uncover. The main feature is the expansive Waterloo Lake which has a 2.5km walk around its perimeter."

"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."

"Get behind-the-scenes access on matchdays with the Elland Road Stadium Tour, with sneaky peeks at the dressing rooms, the tunnel and the managers dugout!. Tours begin from Billy’s Bar at 10am (before a 3pm kick-off) and 2pm (prior to an evening game) and last around an hour and a half. Tours cost £15 for adults, £10 for juniors (aged under 16) and seniors (aged 60 and over)."

"Adventurous couples can tackle the tree tops at Temple Newsam. Be bold and go for the tree top challenge – the hardest Go Ape course. Your unbreakable love and unwavering support (did we just say that?) will get you through once you’re 15 meters above the ground."

"Just off City Park, this free photography gallery aims to show contemporary photography that gets you looking, thinking and talking. There’s also a diverse education and events programme. Visit the Impressions Gallery website"

"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."

"Sunny Bank Mills was once a key part of the city’s industrial past, but since being restored by the Gaunt family, it’s been turned into a multi-purpose creative space with a 3,000-square-foot art gallery at its heart. It’s one of the best galleries in Leeds to find exhibitions by local artists, as it gives them a platform to show their work, from Mel Davies’ colourful landscapes to Kate Kenney’s oil paintings of Yorkshire. It’s also home to Spinning Mill Studios, where local artists and makers create and display their work."

"Starting life as a pop up food van around Leeds, this houmous-loving cafe has gone from strength to strength, and now serves the nation’s favourite dip in 13 locations across the North of England. A great place to eat in or takeaway, the array of delicious menu options is sure to keep everyone happy. Little ones might enjoy a simple hummus bowl with pitta, whilst parents could go for a warm wrap loaded with falafel, fresh colourful salads and a myriad of condiments."

"In our humble opinion it’s one of the best places you can eat in Leeds with kids, and what Humpit doesn’t know about this chickpea-based snack isn’t worth knowing. Inside it’s cosy, but worth squeezing in. Big bowls of traditional hummus are on the menu, delivered with various extras like pita bread, falafel balls, mixed pickles and salads."

"A constant fixture in the city’s top ten on TripAdvisor, you won’t find better hummus in Leeds. The simple menu offers a variety of hummus bowls with exciting toppings, to be served with fluffy pitta breads to scoop up and get stuck in. There’s also the option of adding falafel and salad."

"Located on Gillygate, Waffle On serves a mix of English and American breakfasts, brunches, light lunches and afternoon teas, and of course they serve waffles too!. 569 metres from the Minster.81 Gillygate, York YO31 7EA, United Kingdom"

"An independent coffee shop that also serves hand-stretched pizzas. Available Friday evenings and all day until 6pm on Saturday. Text in your order with as much notice as possible."

"Currently doing take out (collection) pizzas as well on Friday evenings until 10pm. Until 4pm every other day except Sundays!"

"Whether looking for a cosy table for two, or celebrating with friends and family, Bill’s has something for everyone. Open all day and into the night, we’re well-known for our legendary breakfasts, veg-centric lunches, and a la carte dinners. Families are warmly welcomed with plenty of space for pushchairs."

"Serving breakfast until 11:30am, there’s plenty of time to get your brunch fix here!. With traditional breakfasts, eggs of all kinds, buttermilk pancakes, delicious smoothies, and more to choose from – you’ll be spoilt for choice."

"I really liked this place as it seemed to have a real local feel about it. The staff and owners had a good rapport with lots of the locals who came in for takeaway coffees and pastries and there was a welcoming, happy, laid back atmosphere. Italian inspired (some of the staff are Italian and it almost seemed to be a meeting point for York’s Italian community!) this little gem of a place is open from breakfast until evening and serves simple, tasty, food."