Must See Sights and Landmarks in Ledston Area

"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."

"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)."

"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 a Grade I listed building under the English Heritage Registry, the Chantry Chapel of St.Mary is an ancient and beautiful monument to Wakefield’s history. Although it is only open at specific times, making the extra effort to see this place is definitely worth it. Although small, many have praised it for its beautiful stained windows, its enriching history, and the complimentary tea and biscuits along with it!"

"Step back in time at this beautifully restored, fully operational windmill. This Grade II listed icon has been lovingly brought back to life by the Holgate Windmill Preservation Society, a collection of local residents who rallied together to secure its future and rescue it from disrepair. Dating back to the late 18th century, the windmill supplied flour from Holgate to York, just over a mile from the city centre."

"The finest of Leeds' many lovely churches - and also the city's oldest - is St. John's in New Briggate. Built in 1634, its interior is notable for having two naves, as well as an original Renaissance rood screen, pulpit, and stalls. Other religious sites worth visiting in Leeds include St. Anne's Cathedral, the Roman Catholic cathedral in Cookridge Street (built 1904), and the Georgian Church of Holy Trinity on the riverbank in Boar Lane (1727)."

"King’s Manor is a stately house in York city centre that has played host to some of British history’s most important visitors. In the days before the Reformation, it was the home of the Abbot of St Mary’s, before becoming the headquarters of the Council of the North in Henry VIII’s time. The Tudor king himself stayed there, giving rise to its current name."

"Hidden away under Lendal Bridge, the tiny Perky Peacock occupies a medieval tower that once functioned as a toll booth on the adjacent River Ouse. It is an atmospheric spot where the food is as seductive as the surroundings. First-rate, local ingredients underpin a menu of breakfast items (a bacon butty on Via Vecchia’s cheese bread, anyone?), handsome (if pre-made) lunchtime sandwiches and home-baked cakes."

"The Perky Peacock was the first place we went for breakfast in York. It’s a tiny, quirky little place up in a medieval tower house on the city walls. Being so compact (there’s only around 5 tables!), it’s likely you will have to wait for a seat, although turnover was pretty quick when we were there."

"One of York's charms is finding teeny places like this cafe, shoe-horned into historic buildings. In this case the host is a 14th-century, rotund watchtower crouched by the riverbank. Sup an excellent coffee..."

"Gelato Passion have 20 different flavours of ice cream to choose from at their Beeston store and they’re all made fresh each day. Their most popular ones are bubblegum, cookies & cream, Oreo and Ferrero Rocher, or you can try something a little more unusual like Nutella or Milky Bar. Want a treat to go alongside your ice cream?"

"The city’s favourite micro-roaster has finally opened their very own coffee shop. North Star have been supplying coffee to some of the very best cafes in Leeds for several years, and earlier this year opened the doors to their first stand-alone café down by Leeds Dock. Alongside the café and the shop, there’s also a chance to get to grips with the coffee making process yourself at the Coffee Academy."

"A popular coffee shop is North Star situated near the Royal Armouries. Whenever you walk through this area, you’ll see many people with coffee takeaways from this cafe. If it’s popular, it’s for a reason!"

"The National Railway Museum is a world class museum dedicated to the glory days of Britain's railways. Opened in 1975 the museum is housed in a former steam locomotive depot within walking distance of York Station. The free museum displays over 100 locomotives and nearly 200 other items of rolling stock and presents the history of the railway from the early 19th century to the present day."

"We love the railway museum not least because Rebecca’s dad is a train enthusiast and could spend hours in here reading every tiny detail on every sign next to every exhibition!. Great for kids with live shows and hands-on activities. Entry is free, but if you can afford it, it’s nice to make a small donation to keep this attraction thriving in York for years to come."

"York's National Railway Museum – the biggest in the world, with more than 100 locomotives – is well presented and crammed with fascinating stuff. It is laid out on a vast scale and is housed in a series of giant... Top ChoiceMuseum in York"

"This 18th-century townhouse offers a glimpse into the tastes, fashions, and daily life of Georgian-era nobility. It began as the home of Viscount Charles Gregory Fairfax and then enjoyed brief stints as a gentlemen’s club, cinema, and dancehall before being restored to its Georgian-era glory."

"The elegant property dates from the mid-18th century and over the ages has been a Gentleman's Club, a Building Society and even a cinema. Exhibits include original clocks, clothing, furniture and paintings. The museum also hosts frequent temporary exhibitions."

"Fairfax House is one of the finest 18th century houses in the North of England. It was designed by John Carr of York, and has the best 18th century rococo decoration. Fairfax House is owned by York Civic Trust who have restored the house to its former glory."

"If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Anand Sweets is one of the best takeaways in Leeds. This family-run cafe deals mainly in traditional Indian desserts delivered to your door, from the Mango Shrikland to the Mint Chocolate Barfi. But did you know they do curries too?"

"109 Harehills Road, Leeds LS8 5HS, EnglandTakeout, Seating, WaitstaffIndian, Fast Food, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, Brunch, Dinner+44 113 248 1234"