Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Wilsill

"The perfect park for picnics, relaxing by the River Aire and leisurely strolls around one of the best surviving medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain, Kirkstall Abbey has 24 hectares of parkland for you to explore. The park stretches from Abbey Mills Wildflower Meadows, which is carpeted in bluebells in the spring, past the tennis courts on the far side and over the road to the playground and fields on either side of Abbey House Museum. Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH."

"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 (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."

"You’ll have to pay an entrance price for York Castle, but the reward is the best view you’ll see of the city below. The tower itself is also pretty on the outside for a second bonus photo. 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."

"Right in the heart of Nidderdale, Stump Cross Caverns provides the perfect subterranean day out in Yorkshire. You can explore the complex web of walkways and chambers as you descend 65 steps below the earth. These ancient natural caves are home to prehistoric animal remains and a series of unique limestone formations that have been created out of the rock by underground stream erosion over the course of millions of years."

"The limestone landscape of the Yorkshire Dales is riddled with caves. The Dales are home to England’s largest cavern (in Gaping Gill) and England’s deepest cave (part of The Three Counties system). Kids will love donning a hard hat and descending into the dark depths to explore the one mile long Stump Cross Caverns near Pateley Bridge."

"Take in the refreshing air of the forest while you follow the paths that. will lead you to cliffs from where you’ll have the best view of the Wharf Valley."

"The Cauldron Falls are set just outside the idyllic village of West Burton. Often referred to as both the West Burton Falls, they’re well worth a visit if you’re also making a trip to the slightly more popular Aysgarth Falls, which is just a few miles up north. Just a short walk from the village, it’s easily accessible and doesn’t require a massive hike!"

"I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a tumultuous year and if we could just spare a couple of hours to learn about stories of peace and social reform, we would emerge from this experience with more empathy. This museum is, literally speaking, a hidden attraction in town. It took me a few looks at maps and road signs to find it because of how small it is."

"One of the stars of Leeds South Bank, Northern Monk Old Flax Store brewery beer garden is the perfect place to soak up the rays and a few pints of their world beer cup winning Eternal Session IPA. There’s an ever-changing selection of kitchen takeovers from the area’s best street food traders to soak up all the drinks, not to mention the train station is only minutes away. One of our favourite spots on this side of town. Marshalls Mill, The Old Flax Store, Marshall St, Leeds LS11 9YJ – 0113 2430003"

"A stone’s throw from the train station, Northern Monk is a solid choice, even if you’re not based in the city centre. With street food takeovers on rotation, the kitchen’s always got something to nibble on to soak up all those beers. Just beware, the toilets are unisex, so you might have to time your trips to avoid awkward touch-ups in the mirror…"

"The Old Flax Store, Marshalls Mill, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 9YJ. Located on the first floor of the Old Flax Store, this brewery-based refectory hosts regular takeovers from local food vendors, though the focus on the varied styles of beer the ‘monks’ brew."

"The mullioned windows, stone flags and thick walls of the ancient inn – deep-set in stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales and close to Bolton Abbey – drip authentic character and the great long bar in the taproom is a welcoming rallying point for tired walkers and hungry guests. The hotel’s fires, snugs and carpeted little rooms may flirt with the chintzy on occasion, but they provide the perfect places to retreat and relax with views over the river and up the fells. The restaurant is a pleasure to eat in; with oak floors and panelling, a log-burning stove and, in places, views of the river, it’s a great spot to enjoy locally sourced dishes."

"Aagrah has got its formula down to a tee: the Shipley-based chain now has locations across the North. Its roots lie in the late ’70s, when the family-run restaurant served their curries and other dishes to a public still suspicious of South Asian cuisine. Of course, those attitudes are long done, and Aagrah is a perennial favourite among Yorkshire diners."

"Authentic award winning Kashmiri cuisine with a modern twist. First class hospitality in comfortable surroundings, our team of chefs continually aim to provide healthy nutritious…"

"Kerala Restaurant is highly reputed for the tasty and authentic South Indian cuisine that they serve to all their customers and guests. Welcoming all individuals and groups even people with special dietary requirements, they serve a wide variety of dishes that would certainly whet your appetite and fit the needs and preferences that you have. They have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes so better check their menu and order the one that is tempting your palate."

"Chino Latino is known to be one of the best Japanese restaurants in Leeds. They were awarded the Pan-Asian Leeds City Square Restaurant of the year. It’s near the Leeds station and is clean."