Historic Sites in East Ardsley

"Basically, this is the ruins of a Christian monastery that was set within a public park right on the banks of a great looking river. Built during the 12th century by monks who had forsaken their home in Barnoldswick, the ruins are still preserved, and visitors can get a slice of history by admiring them. The abbey and the grounds look very relaxing and a pleasant day out will help one unravel all this and more."

"Few locations can top the spectacular backdrop offered by the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, and with 24 hectares of parkland surrounding it, you can enjoy a romantic stroll before asking that all important question."

"Perched atop a grassy motte is Clifford’s Tower, which is one of the last remaining parts of York Castle. Originally built out of wood by the Normans, it was reinforced and rebuilt out of stone in the thirteenth century and the sturdy keep is now a popular tourist attraction in York. Wrecked by a massive explosion in 1684, its hollow, gutted interior was later used as both a prison and treasury."

"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."

"Temple Newsam, one of the romantic places to go in Leeds, is a historic site with vast grounds and gardens where you two can take a stroll. Take in its 500-year-deep history all recounted in its glorious 1,500-acres (607-hectares) mansion ground. The temple’s walls — where royalty once walked — are full of history."

"Abbey House promises to take you back in time to the Victorian Era with its recreated Victorian streets and residents wandering around in Victorian dress. Visit Stephen Harding Gate for the 19th century equivalent to a modern high streetoffering you a unique shopping experience and, after some retail therapy, stop off at the Hark to Rover Inn to grab a pint at a recreated model of a Victorian drinking house. Explore the social division of the poor and rich as you experience life both in poverty and as a rich pawnbroker in the residential districts."

"Abbey House Museum is one of those museums in Leeds which holds a number of activities for the children ranging from descriptive to interactive. This museum was short-listed for the Guardian ‘Kids in Museum family Friendly Award’ in 2011. The museum allows you to go back in time and wander in the Victorian Streets so as to see the life in 19th century Leeds."

"You can have the perfect Leeds day out at Abbey House Museum. It sits opposite Kirkstall Abbey, so you can explore the famous ruins and make the most of the handsome park it sits in, then dive into the museum. When the Abbey still stood proud, from 1152 until Henry VIII had it dissolved in the 16th century, this building was the gate house."

"This pink facade building on St. Helen’s Square (near Betty’s Tea Rooms) is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York and has only recently opened to the public. The grand, 800 year old house showcases collections of silverware and ceramics, ceremonial items used by the Lord Mayor as well as recreated 18th century bedrooms and dining rooms. The downstairs kitchen has interactive exhibits and equipment to learn about Georgian cooking ."

"According to McGee is a contemporary art gallery found opposite Clifford’s Tower and close to the River Ouse, dedicated to exhibiting the most “exciting artists in the UK” – whether they are established, emerging or just starting out. For 14 years directors Greg and Ails McGee have been displaying a mix of works in their gallery, from sculpture to photography, with prints of the work available for purchase online – selling to collectors the world over. From Goldsmiths and Glasgow School of Art graduates, to rock star and Pop Artist Horace Panter and 1960s legend Doug Binder, According to McGee is “an increasingly well regarded gallery space of note” with knowledgeable and passionate minds behind the project – making it one of the best places to discover something new."

"Shopping, Independent"

"Kala Sangam, St. Peter’s House, 1 Forster Square, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 4TY - Visit now. Kala Sangam is an intercultural arts hub based in the heart of Bradford city centre which reflects the diversity of contemporary Britain through the work it presents, the artists it supports and the communities it engages."

"The Bingley Gallery, 29A Park Road, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 4BQ - Visit now. The Bingley Gallery is a hidden haven of local art work and changing exhibitions. Curated by visual artist David Starley."

"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."

"Indian restaurant chain Aagrah is open for delivery and offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Vegetarian specials include Lahori Cholay (chickpea curry), Balti Paneer, vegetable korma and vegetable madras."

"Head to Impossible Wonderbar & Tearooms situated in the iconic St Helens Square, within a stunning Grade ll listed building. Usual suspects the full English and pancakes are here, mixed with more unusual options such as breakfast shakshuka with pancetta, sausage and red pepper, or toasted bagels topped with halloumi, smoked salmon or nduja. Guests may choose one small plate and a side, accompanied by 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco, mimosas, gin cocktails, wine, beer or Bloody Marys for £35."