Top 10 Kid Friendly Things To Do and Attractions in Askham Bryan

"This historic Leeds landmark is one of the most intact examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in the UK. Aside from the ruins themselves, which you’re free to explore, there are 24 hectares of parkland here, so pack a picnic and find a spot next to the scenic River Aire. Visit on the last weekend of the month and you can also make the most of Kirkstall Abbey Deli Market, which offers a delectable mix of street food and fresh local produce."

"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."

"Clifford’s Tower offers stunning views of the city from it’s vantage point on top of a mound. The tower is what’s left of the York Castle which was built by William the Conqueror. 1 mile(s) from the Minster.Tower St, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA, United Kingdom"

"The striking contrast of Clifford’s Tower with the green bank of grass it sits on is a classic photo to snap of York!. Make the short (but steep) climb to the top and venture inside for a panorama of York."

"At 700 acres, Roundhay Park is one of the biggest urban parks in Europe. It’s twice the size of Hyde Park in London and offers a multitude of adventures. The vast network of paths stretches beyond the landscape gardens into the woodlands where you’ll find quaint riverside rambles, picturesque gorge walks and calf-burning hikes that promise incredible views."

"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."

"Meanwood Park is a 29-hectares area consisted of woodland, mown grass, stream and meadows. They have different attractions and facilities like Meanwood Valley Trail, nature reserve, playground, tennis courts, basketball courts and picnic areas. A perfect place for the family to have their quality time, kids would love to play on their children’s playground while their parents can do different sports activities like tennis or basketball."

"At just 29 hectares, Meanwood Park may be on the small side, but trust us, it’s well worth a visit. The grounds are wonderfully eclectic – you can hike through woodlands and amble through meadows, trek across landscaped lawns and wander beside bubbling streams. Follow the footpaths for a leisurely stroll or treat yourself to a game – they have tennis and basketball courts, as well as a bowling green."

"A short distance from LCA, this park is great for an afternoon walk!. It's also the perfect place to see freshly hatched moor hen and mallard duck chicks in the springtime!"

"At the heart of Coppergate Shopping Centre take a break from shopping at this lovely ice cream kiosk. With a choice of at “least eight flavours daily” and also milkshakes and coffee to choose from, this is an oasis amidst the busyness of the city centre. St Mary’s Square, Coppergate, York, YO1 9NT"

"Last but not least is something a bit different, and a must-try for all of you with a sweet tooth. My Cookie Dough is a cookie dough stand in Trinity Shopping Centre, but they also do takeaway and delivery. Whilst they offer boxes for you to bake yourself, we’d recommend the fresh cookie dough boxes which come warm (or cold, should you choose an ice cream)."

"Just a 20 minute drive from Leeds city centre is St Aidan’s Nature Reserve. A huge country park with abundant wildlife and over 12 kilometres of trails to walk or cycle along. Admire lakes, woodland and plenty of fresh air, as you spot roe deer, skylarks and owls."

"This wetland on the fringes of Leeds is a birdwatcher's paradise and also a top place for a gentle walk. It's off Astley Lane, Swillington."

"Pop over to RSPB St. Aidan's and see what you can spot through your binocs ( also known as binoculars!)"

"The fleet of vintage ice cream trucks, painted pink, white and blue, are gorgeous to look at and serve just as wonderfully pleasing ice creams. In recent years, they’ve noticed a shift from 99p cones to more extravagant options – now they are creating thee ‘super Sundaes’ which you can pick up from one of the trucks around Roundhay Park. Find them at Mansion Ln, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2HH."

"Although he trained with the Roux brothers at Le Gavroche, Michael Hjort’s restaurant has a wonderful lack of pretension, a relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices for what is one of York’s finest restaurants. Classy starters such as scallops with lovage pasta and caponata or home-smoked ox tongue with kohlrabi remoulade lead on to salted East Coast coley (with fennel and saffron gnocchi) or Yorkshire pig (‘The Whole Hog’ is a perfectly sized plate of trotter, belly and hock served with pommes boulangère and cabbage). Refreshingly, vegetarian options are meat-free takes on the main courses and suggestions for wines to match each dish are a welcome touch."

"When to go: When you want good quality, classic ingredients, cooked to perfection. What to have: The east coast cod, with Jerusalem artichokes, truffle and hazelnut pesto and coastal herbs is light, fresh and decadent all at once. Open for over 30 years, Melton’s is somewhat of a York institution."

"La Cour Brasserie is a Parisian-style bistro, known for its classy decor, attentive service and scrumptious food. They serve up a menu of French inspired dishes using the best local produce – think boeuf bourguignon, duck in caramelised port sauce and moules marinières, with a host of tempting desserts to boot. La Cour Brasserie, 194 New Road Side, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4DP."