Historic Sites in Harehills

"Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH - Visit now. Founded in 1152, Kirkstall Abbey on the bank of the River Aire is one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian monastery in Britain. Its dramatic ruins have inspired artists such as JMW Turner over the centuries, and provided the perfect setting for Yorkshire’s Gothic Film Festival in 2013"

"Set in beautiful parkland situated along the banks of the River Aire, the Kirkstall Abbey is an example of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. Restoring its historic architecture, the abbey also displays nature through its wildlife and greenery. The abbey was founded by Henry de Lacy, baron of Pontefract, who was one of the leading landholders in the North."

"Clifford’s Tower, a semi-ruined 13th-century remnant of York Castle, is also one of the few Norman relics in a city dominated by Viking influence. Nowadays, Clifford’s Tower is one of the most popular and emblematic sights in York, and the panoramic views from the tower’s ramparts make it an excellent starting point for first-time visitors to historic 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."

"Seeing this amazing structure from the street is brilliant and free. It sits perfectly on top of its hill overlooking the city. It is almost all that remains of York Castle built by William the Conqueror and today is looked after by English Heritage"

"Structured in an impressive Tudor- Jacobean fashion, Temple Newsam mansion is set within 1500 acres of enticing parklands, housing rare breed farm and displaying a rich history through its 500 years old country mansion. As you enter inside the mansion, you will come across some of the finest decorative art treasures.The place is also famous as the birth place of Lord Darnley, the notorious husb...Read more"

"Head three miles out the centre to the historic Temple Newsam, it is easily accessible from the city by car, bus and Uber. Take in your surroundings in the country estate by enjoying the picturesque grounds, operational farm and extraordinary house. Uncover the many walking trails, sport facilities and there is even a GoApe here for the adrenaline junkies at an extra cost."

"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."

"In the galleries at Abbey House Museum, you’ll be transported back to life in Victorian Leeds, strolling recreated 19th century streets. There are shops, a pub and houses, where you can peer inside and see how people lived a century or so ago, as well as regular new exhibitions. You can also discover a whole area on classic toys, including traditional games and Victorian dolls – you can even play some of the original penny slot machines (and buy an old-fashioned penny from the vending machine to do it)."

"Located about four miles west of Leeds in Aire Valley, Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall is in a magnificent Cistercian house built in 1152. The picturesque remains include a roofless church with a narrow choir and a ruined tower, an almost completely preserved chapterhouse, as well as a refectory, kitchen, and various other buildings. The gatehouse is now part of the Abbey House Museum with its reproduction houses, shops, and workshops illustrating life in Yorkshire through the centuries."

"During the Victorian Period, the Industrial Revolution changed Britain, turning it from a rich but agricultural nation to the modern country it is today. Abbey House Museum captures these exciting times, recreating shops, pubs and houses from the 19th century. Wander through Victorian streets and see how the people of Leeds lived two hundred years ago, and see if you can spot what has changed and what’s stayed the same."

"Many of Britain’s most well recognised historical figures were born in Yorkshire, and the Brontë sisters are no exception. Kept inside their old house in Haworth, the Passage Museum contains the largest collection of their manuscripts, letters and other writings anywhere in the world. A true beacon of literary history."

"The best of Haworth's Brontë sights is this somber Georgian (1778) house where the sisters grew up. It displays original furniture (some…"

"There’s far more than just the stately home to discover at Harewood House – this is somewhere to spend all day exploring. The grounds have three walking trails to help you explore, along with a great adventure playground, and a natural play area in the woods, a ‘secret’ tunnel to the Norman church, formal gardens, a pretty lake with a ferry heading across to more gardens and usually boat trips running too. You’ll also find a string of farmyard animals, from guinea pigs to actual pigs, and a host of rare birds, including macaws and cockatoos, lovebirds and a flamboyance of flamingos."

"Situated within “capability” Brown designed landscape, this historic Georgian property offers breathtaking views from its terraces. Inside the house, you can see rare Chippendale furniture and exquisite interior designs in the State Rooms. Also, do take out time to explore the corridors Below Stairs."

"This place is genuinely spectacular, with lots of history to discover. It was built between 1759 and 1771 for wealthy plantation owner Edwin Lascelles. Since then, it’s not lost any of its splendour, with members of the Royal Family even living here in years gone by."

"Explore one of the original National Trust properties at York’s Treasurer’s House, an opulent and eclectic 2-story mansion set amid landscaped gardens that has a fascinating history spanning 2,000 years. Highlights include the period rooms replete with historical artifacts, including a Queen Anne bedspread and a blown-glass chandelier, as well as the allegedly haunted cellars."

"You can find this National Trust Property behind York Minster, this fine 17th Century house was once home to the treasurer's of York Minster. Join a guided tour of Treasurer's House and see over four Centuries of the elegant interior. If you go on the ghost walks in York this is one of the key stops on route!"

"Begun in 1964, the West Yorkshire Playhouse has established a reputation both nationally and internationally as one of Britain’s most exciting producing theatres. Opened as a successor to earlier Leeds Playhouse, its structure has two auditoria and hosts a range of productions – from classical drama to modern European theatre and children’s shows. If you are looking forward to...Read more"

"Where: Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, LS2 7UP. Leeds Playhouse is a theatre and events space in Leeds which is a must visit attraction. It shows a range of shows, varying from performances for children to modern European theatre."

"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."

"Another designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, it was the tallest building in the city when it opened in 1858. Since then, it’s been eclipsed by a host of skyscrapers, but its majesty remains. The 10-column colonnade, flanked by four Portland stone lions, immediately catches the eye, but be sure to look up."

"Leeds Town Hall was built between 1853 and 1858 and is a Grade 1 listed building in classic and baroque style. It hosts a range of cultural events such as live music, comedy shows, film screenings and more."

"Within easy reach of the town, East Riddlesden Hall is a stunning national trust property which makes for a great day out or even a venue for a special occasion. The current 17th century manor house sits on an estate with roots stretching back to the 7th century. Enjoy the house, tearoom, and grounds of this beautiful spot."

"East Riddlesden Hall is a 17th-century manor house in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England, now owned by the National Trust. The hall was built in 1642 by a wealthy Halifax clothier, James Murgatroyd. The hall is a Grade I listed building."

"Proving the best baked goods don’t always have to be sweet, this independent sandwich bakery serves the most delicious selection of Italian breads, which are all handcrafted on site. Rotating more than 200 fillings, you’ll be sure to find a lunch time snack here that you won’t forget in a hurry. Visit: 164 Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9HB"