Top 10 Kid Friendly Things To Do and Attractions in Ledston

"If you're looking for somewhere with a bit of history, then look no further than Kirkstall Abbey. The giant Gothic building is a former Cistercian monastery which was built in the 12th Century and the sheer scale of the structure is still breathtaking (and award-winning) in this day and age. Nowadays though, it embraces modern life with a monthly market and other events inside the walls of the Abbey, while the open spaces on the banks of the River Aire are the perfect spot to unwind."

"Ruined but prideful, forgotten but known, beautifully neglected — Kirkstall Abbey is a lot of things to a lot of people. This gorgeous piece of historic …"

"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."

"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"

"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."

"One of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park sprawls over more than 700 acres and welcomes more than a million visitors each year. Four miles (or an 18-minute car journey) from the city centre, the park offerd lakes, woodlands, formal gardens, cafes, two playgrounds and Tropical World. There is also the grand Mansion, now an event space for weddings and corporate events."

"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."

"Situated on the riverbank by Millennium Bridge is this “unique and charming floating ice cream van”. Ideal for a sunny afternoon walk by the riverside."

"Interesting features include some memorable stained glass windows - one depicting the Parable of the Widow’s Mite and one window commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. A 17th century organ case - the present one was rebuilt in 1885; carved choir stalls - one with a carved pelican representing the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, and a finely painted column in the centre of the South Chapel in memory of those from the parish who lost their lives in the First World War. Reverend Patrick Duckworth will be pleased to talk to school parties – with the enclosed garden area providing a perfect spot for children to eat their packed lunch."

"A working farm and teaching facility, Wigfield farm is also a wonderful day out if you have children who are animal lovers. In addition to all the usual animals you would expect to find on a farm, you can also see meerkats, rats, alpacas, rabbits, and tortoises here. Children can feed lambs and watch the keepers take care of the larger animals."

"Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa is a stylish getaway that is well insulated and keeps the noise of the bustling city of Leeds out. The hotel creates a homely and elegant atmosphere with lush landscaping, a charming atrium courtyard where you can find fresh-baked goods, and guest rooms with neutral colours and upscale furniture. As its name suggests, this hotel offers one of the best spa and wellness treatments in Leeds with fantastic facilities such as a massive indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, and fitness club."

"Last but certainly not least, Thorpe Park Spa Leeds, a colossal Leeds hotel and spa. This Leeds spa isn’t shy when it comes to its facilities, we’re talking seven treatment rooms, relaxation lounge, manicure & pedicure stations, swimming pool, colour therapy sauna, steam room, indoor whirlpool, outdoor terrace and even afternoon tea!. The rooms all provide a reassuringly comfortable and relaxing environment and even come with biscuits and refres­hments!"

"This upmarket modern hotel, close to the M1 and five miles east of central Leeds, stands out for its creative dining and its extensive health and wellbeing facilities. The latter include a large swimming pool, a well-equipped gym and high-quality treatments using ESPA and Natura Bisse products."

"Once known as the hangout for Leeds' goths and emo kids, the Grade I listed Victorian Corn Exchange is now home to a variety of boutiques and independent stores, selling fashion, gifts, Yorkshire produce and more. There are also cafes where you can enjoy and coffee and soak in the impressive architecture, regular craft and gift fairs and the Little Leeds Beer House, a hidden gem for real and craft ale fans looking for something different. Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR. Open Monday-Wednesday 10am-6pm, Friday-Saturday 10am-6pm and Sundays 10.30am-4.30pm."

"Leeds really knows how to do shopping centres with character. This Grade I listed building from 1863 might not see any corn traded these days, but it’s a drop-dead gorgeous place to shop, dine and soak in the atmosphere. It’s the place to go if you want to support independents, with start-up clothes shops, vintage treasure troves and vendors of the unusual all to be found here."

"This magnificent, Grade 1 listed building first opened its doors in 1864 to corn traders. Marvel at the independent eateries and retailers and if you are lucky they will have one of their exciting events happening. For example, the Rum Festival or if you visit in October experience art in the dark at Light Night Leeds."

"In the near centre of Wakefield sits the magnificent Wakefield Cathedral, or the even grander title of the Cathedral Church of All Saints in Wakefield. Although we owe the Victorians for Wakefield Cathedral’s current appearance, restored and reopened in 1888, it has been a place of worship since the 9th-century, and has even been mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086. Today, anyone can come and have an informal, 45 minute tour of this historic cathedral, with no booking required and completely free!"

"Another incredibly old building, Wakefield Cathedral is the tallest church in Yorkshire and has a long and fascinating history. Although it has been developed and rebuilt at various points over the past 900 years, the building which exists today dates back to the 14th century. Its 247-foot tall spire is visible from many of the suburbs of Wakefield and even beyond on a clear day."