Must See Sights and Landmarks in Cowthorpe Area

"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."

"Explore one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. Set in wonderful parkland along the banks of the River Aire, Kirkstall Abbey boast historic architecture amid a haven of wildlife and greenery"

"Clifford’s Tower (also known as York Castle) has been at the heart of York for many centuries now. It’s endured a fair few battles and what remains of the fortified complex that once consisted of prisons, castles and law courts, is now a ruinous castle. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee, where you’ll see panoramic views of the Vale of York."

"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 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."

"The entertaining Abbey House Museum is contained in the gatehouse of the picturesque, ruined Kirkstall Abbey, dating from 1152. Abbey House allows visitors to walk around the streets of 1880s Leeds, while the upstairs section features galleries detailing the history of Kirkstall Abbey and the social history of the area. The museum has won awards for being family-friendly and fun for children."

"Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Leeds, LS5 3EH - Visit now. If your children struggle to imagine life without tablets, iPhone games or a PlayStation to keep them entertained, then a trip to Abbey House Museum should prove an eye-opening experience."

"As the name implies, York’s Merchant Adventurers were merchants. They traded along the English coast, northern Europe and sometimes as far as the Baltic and Iceland, bringing back an assortment of desired goods to York. The city was an important river port and the wealthiest city in Northern England, second only to London for most of the Middle Ages, allowing the merchants to make enough money to build the Hall between 1357 and 1361."

"This guildhall in the city of York was one of the most important buildings in the medieval city. The majority of the Hall was built in 1357 by a group of influential men and women who came together to form a religious fraternity called the Guild of Our Lord Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The main part of the building consists of the Great Hall, the Undercroft and the Chapel."

"Another excellent photography spot and Instagrammable place in York is the Merchant’s Hall. The Merchant’s Hall has one of the most impressive guildhalls in the world, and sometimes you can get it empty – it’s incredible for photos."

"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."

"Designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, Leeds Corn Exchange is without a doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Completed in 1864, the beautiful building is still a centre for trade and has become known as an independent shopping haven. You’ll find a mix of vintage clothing shops, jewellers and gift stores inside, as well as cafés, hairdressers and even a tattoo parlour."

"A grade I listed building, the Corn Exchange was built in 1863 and was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, the architect behind Leeds Town Hall. The building is now a boutique shopping centre home to independent retailers and food outlets."

"Give into your comfort food cravings and enjoy a meaty feast of beef, chicken and vegan burgers, wings, fries and sides, polished off by an Oreo, marshmallow, coconut and chocolate pie, served warm with ice cream. Visit: Trinity Centre, Bank Street, LS1 5AT - meatliquor.com. Red's True Barbecue is the perfect spot to indulge in a meaty feast (Photo: Dave Lee)"

"Expect the usual array of obscene burgers that promise to fulfil the brand’s ‘come hungry, leave wobbly’ motto, along with hotdogs, fries, sides and hard shakes. Kids and dogs are both welcome and vegans are catered for too."

"Yes, I’m aware it’s a chain but Byron burgers are too elite not to mention. Consistency is key from chains and I can confirm that ordering Byron to your uni house does just that. There is the odd occasion where the chips aren’t awfully crispy upon arrival, but just pop them back in the oven and complain to Deliveroo and you’ve got yourself a fiver."

"‘The best burger on the high street’ & other superlatives are regularly tossed in the direction of Byron Hamburgers, the chain that eve ..." Read our full review"

"9A Lands Lane, Leeds LS1 6AWOn the corner of Land’s Lane & Albion Place, Byron Burger offera tasty vegan burger option."

"Located in the student community of Hyde Park, not far from Headingley, the Greasy Pig is renowned for being a minimalist haven for amazing food and drink. Their signature dish ‘the Paralyser’ is great if you have the appetite, as are the many food challenges they have. Feeling something a bit lighter?"

"Specializing in feeding hungry students for affordable prices. You are likely to find something on the menu that will appeal to you. Most meals are under £5 pounds."

"From their website: ‘Our exciting, inventive and varied menus have been especially created by our experienced staff, and are La Vecchia Scuola’s distinguishing – and distinguished – culinary feature. We believe in serving only the very best in contemporary Italian cooking.’"

"05/06/2021: The restaurant is one of two we tend to visit whenever we come to York. The building and surroundings are stunning and this is a big draw. On this occasion we were put in a side room with three other tables."

"31 Potternewton Lane, Chapel Allerton, LS7 3LWBased outside the city centre in Chapel Allerton, Inkwell’s Cafe is volunteer-led, 100% vegetarian, and only open on Saturdays. Serving up breakfast until 11:30, accompanied by arts and crafts sessions and live music, The Inkwell centre also supports Mind, the mental health charity."