Top 10 Kid Friendly Things To Do and Attractions in Birkin

"Step back in time and explore the historical ruins for free at Kirkstall Abbey. Unquestionably, the remarkable architecture is a sanctuary for all curious souls and historians alike. Learn about life as a monk in one of the most complete Cistercian monasteries in the UK and explore rich British history throughout the abbey."

"Kirkstall Abbey has a wooly great summer of sheep themed activities in the abbey!. Cistercians loved their sheep and they Kirkstall Abbey will celebrate that fact with a baa-tastic trail. Pick up or download a trail to find the whole flock and discover the different types of sheep that the UK call home."

"Leeds' most impressive medieval structure is beautiful Kirkstall Abbey, founded in 1152 by Cistercian monks from Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire. These days the city makes good use of it as an atmospheric..."

"Small but perfectly formed, Clifford’s Tower offers, among other things, splendid views across the city and York Minster from its circular platform up high. It also tells an interesting tale, often referred to as York Castle, the site dates back to 1068 when William the Conqueror was busy trying to rid the north of Vikings and built a number of castles on his way. While many battles raged over the centuries (the murky Jewish massacre of 1190 cast a long shadow), York Castle’s role evolved, including stints as a prison and a royal mint."

"At one point the majestic centerpiece of York Castle, this historic keep has had a long and troubled life. Originally built to intimidate and subdue the Viking north by William the Conqueror, it has been twice burned to the ground in its lifespan. The other surviving fragments of the castle (such as the bailey wall and parts of the south gatehouse) blend seamlessly into the bustling city streets."

"To see a fantastic panorama of York and take some great photos, head to the Clifford’s Tower. The entry price is a bit high for what the place has to order. However, it’s excellent for photos that you’re going to take there."

"Roundhay Park is ideal for the family to have fun enjoying the great outdoors. Located a 15-minute drive from Clayton Hotel Leeds, the park is one of Europe’s biggest inner-city green spaces spanning over 700 acres of parkland, woodland, lakes and landscaped gardens. Spot the various species of fish and birds across the water features in the park or enjoy some fishing on Waterloo lake."

"If you’re craving green space, head to one of the largest city parks in Europe to spend an afternoon walking the dog or simply sunbathing on one of the many lawns. Roundhay Park is a popular spot all year round with a variety of lakes, meadows and forests to walk around and explore. Roundhay Park | © Chemical Engineer / Wikimedia | © Chemical Engineer / Wikimedia"

"There’s something for all ages at Swithens Farm in Rothwell. They have an open farm the kids will love from Tuesday to Sunday, featuring the likes of cows, pigs, rabbits, ducks, geese and two irresistibly cute micro pigs called Molly and Millie. Alongside the animals, they also have a play barn or those up to the age of 11."

"Just below Tropical World are the beautiful Canal Gardens which again, despite being in the area many times exploring Roundhay Park I had never noticed before I ran past them during a lockdown run. I came back again a couple of weeks later with my new tripod (best purchase!!!) to photograph them. In Spring the rhododendrons are in full bloom in this peaceful place."

"The Victoria Quarter of Leeds is a series of Victorian shopping arcades whose opulent style and extravagance have led them to house some of the most expensive retail stores in Leeds. The County Arcade is perfect for an Instagram shot with its wonderful mosaic floor, gilt designs and marble columns…"

"If you’re at White Rose Centre and get a sudden urge for some ice cream, you’re in luck. The Ice Cream Parlour has 18 flavours for you to work through. From mint chocolate chip to raspberry ripple, bubblegum and pistachio, they do the classics and they do them well."

"York has some fabulously chic Cocktail bars at its heart around The Quarter (the central collection of streets located between Stonegate and Petergate). Bobo Lobo isn’t just one of York’s finest Cocktail bars and grills, it’s also a top venue for private parties and functions with two floors and a DJ on request. Why not make their ‘Cocktail Mixology Master Class’ part of your private party!"

"Fancy Hanks is a welcome addition to York, serving American deep South good mood food. They have an excellent all day breakfast menu that includes an American Breakfast (Two Rashes of Streaky Bacon, Homemade Sausage Pattie, Two Eggs, Home Fries, Toast), Chorizo Hash (Chorizo, Potato, Onion, Tomato, Roasted Pimento Pepper and Scallions stir fried and topped with Chipotle Mayo & a Fried Egg) and Mushrooms On Toast (Sauteed Mushrooms, Parmesan, Pine Nuts, Mixed Herbs, Spinach, Guacamole and a Poached Egg on top of toasted bloomer.)"

"Fancy Hanks is a new and welcome addition to York serving American deep South good mood food. They serve classics such as a Double Cheese Burger, Blackened Cajun Chicken as well as a Vegan Corn Burger. They also do some excellent buttermilk fried chicken!"

"Eat & Drink, Cafés & Tearooms"

"Established in 1987, Mamma Mia has a long-standing reputation for excellent and authentic Italian food, freshly prepared in our kitchens. The restaurant seats up to 70 people, and has a lovely secluded patio area seating an extra 40. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 17:00 – 23:00"

"23/05/2021: I came here with my mum for our first meal out post lockdown and it was fantastic. Good quality food cooked perfectly, we had steak and seafood. Service was perfect."

"08/02/2021: Just wanted to say thank you for yet another perfect pizza!. We ordered two pizzas and two tiramisu (for takeaway of course) last Saturday. We didn't have to wait at all to collect and despite a short car journey and a quick warm-up in the oven once we got home the pizzas were absolutely delicious - just as good as they would've been straight out of the oven."

"Offering authentic Chinese food in York, Chef Lu’s dishes range from traditional to modern varieties. This restaurant will take you back to China. You will definitely get to taste the authenticity of Chinese food in the UK, even though you haven’t visited China, yet."