Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Leeds

"One of the most complete medieval abbeys in the UK, Kirkstall Abbey was founded over 800 years ago as a Cistercian Abbey. It’s another great free day out in Leeds with kids, with regular family events and activities during holidays, including trails and art packs. Whenever you visit, you can stroll through the ruined abbey buildings and the lovely parkland on the banks of the river, plus more about the monks who lived here, on display at the visitor centre."

"We talk about Kirkstall Abbey a lot, but it’s only because it really is very special. Built sometime around 1152, this ancient abbey was inhabited by monks for almost four centuries, until Henry VIII closed all of the monasteries down. There’s so much history here, and while wandering around you can really begin to imagine what the abbey was like almost 1000 years ago, when it was first built."

"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."

"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."

"Clifford's Tower was once the site of a timber keep built by William the Conqueror. The current incarnation of Clifford's Tower has looked over the city of York since 1245. Part of York Castle, the tower played a role in the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the English Civil War."

"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."

"Within easy reach of the town, East Riddlesden Hall is a stunning national trust property which makes for a great day out or even a venue for a special occasion. The current 17th century manor house sits on an estate with roots stretching back to the 7th century. Enjoy the house, tearoom, and grounds of this beautiful spot."

"East Riddlesden Hall is a 17th-century manor house in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England, now owned by the National Trust. The hall was built in 1642 by a wealthy Halifax clothier, James Murgatroyd. The hall is a Grade I listed building."

"Another designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, it was the tallest building in the city when it opened in 1858. Since then, it’s been eclipsed by a host of skyscrapers, but its majesty remains. The 10-column colonnade, flanked by four Portland stone lions, immediately catches the eye, but be sure to look up."

"Leeds Town Hall is a 19th century municipal building that was made a Grade I listed building in 1951. It’s the location for everything from marriages and ceremonies to concerts and festivals. See the 1960s chandeliers we restored as part of refurbishments at the Leeds Town Hall back in 2019."

"The Museum Gardens are potentially my favourite place in the whole of York. Regardless of the time of year, the Museum Gardens always look in pristine condition and there are ample places for you to get a good pic for the ‘gram. From St. Mary’s Abbey that provides an idyllic historic backdrop, to the plethora of trees, plants and flowers that are scattered all over the gardens, as well as the Yorkshire Museum, the Museum Gardens are an incredible place for taking pictures."

"In the Museum Gardens in York, you will find the ruins for the St Mary’s Abbey, Roman ruins and the York Botanical Gardens. On a beautiful day, they would be a brilliant place for a picnic or a lazy afternoon tea. The York Museum Gardens are located centrally next to the River Ouse"

"Dean’s Park offers fantastic views, a great place to stretch out and enjoy a break during a busy day, as well as soft drink and ice cream refreshments available during summer. You may also want to view nearby York Minster. There is an admission charge for entering this cathedral but it doesn’t cost anything to take in the magnificent exterior!"

"Located on the North side of the Minster, Dean’s Park is a quiet, green oasis offering incredible views of the Gothic Cathedral and the Minster Library. Some ruins of a 12th-century cloister – probably from the Old Palace – are still standing. While it originally was accessible only to members of the church, today it’s open to the public."

"A beautiful place to soak in the sun and enjoy an ice cream cone, Dean’s Park offers beautiful views and plenty of green, open space. Spread out a blanket and enjoy stunning views of the Minster and its Chapter House."

"Located between Leeds and Wetherby, Bramham Park is the site of the iconic Leeds Festival which occurs every August bank holiday weekend. If you don’t hold tickets to the festival, visit during the rest of the year to explore the 18th Century manor house and its sprawling grounds."

"Kerala Restaurant is highly reputed for the tasty and authentic South Indian cuisine that they serve to all their customers and guests. Welcoming all individuals and groups even people with special dietary requirements, they serve a wide variety of dishes that would certainly whet your appetite and fit the needs and preferences that you have. They have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes so better check their menu and order the one that is tempting your palate."

"Their experienced team source the freshest and finest products from UK ports and pass them directly to their award-winning chefs to create mouth-watering contemporary seafood dishes with a creative twist. 9 Weetwood Ln, Headingley, LS16 5LT – 0113 3401123. Read moreBook Online"

"Grilled cod served with tomato and chilli gnocchi 😍 who says healthy is boring?. Book your table via link in bio ☝ #️catchseafood #seafood #healthy. A post shared by Catch Seafood Restaurants (@catchseafoodrestaurants) on Sep 21, 2020 at 4:20am PDT"

"Open seven days a week, this expansive Italian dining destination is the epitome of authentic Italian cooking. With a mix of seasonal Yorkshire produce, and quality ingredients are flown in from the markets of Sicily and Milan, you’ll find an array of seafood, fresh pasta, and trattoria classics. Up in Roundhay, San Carlo Flying Pizza impressive covered outdoor terrace is the place to be when the sun is shining."

"This one’s for the pizza lovers, you’re going to love it here!. San Carlo Leeds is one of the city’s star attractions, offering classic Italian dishes with a modern aesthetic. Whether you got there for lunch or dinner, they’ve got plenty of meals to choose from to suit all tastes."