Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Lower Dunsforth

"If you’re after a unique place to soak up some sunshine, you must explore this atmospheric example of medieval architecture with the kids on your trip to Leeds. That is to say, a fantastic place for the little ones to run around, these much photographed ruins are surrounded by acres of parkland along the banks of the River Aire. The Visitor Centre delves into the lives of the 12th century monks who lived here and in addition there are seasonal family activities and walking trails to discover too."

"Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH - Visit now. Founded in 1152, Kirkstall Abbey on the bank of the River Aire is one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian monastery in Britain. Its dramatic ruins have inspired artists such as JMW Turner over the centuries, and provided the perfect setting for Yorkshire’s Gothic Film Festival in 2013"

"Beloved by locals looking to escape the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey is the ruins of a Cistercian monastery set within a public park on the banks of a picturesque river. The abbey was built in the early 12th century by monks who had left their previous home in Barnoldswick. The ruins are remarkably well preserved and are free for visitors to wander around and admire."

"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 (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 is another one of the cities most famous attractions. Whilst taking photos from outside of the tower is completely free of charge, ticket fees do apply if you wish to go inside. Once inside, you can check out some great views of York from the top."

"At 700 acres, Roundhay Park is one of the biggest urban parks in Europe. It’s twice the size of Hyde Park in London and offers a multitude of adventures. The vast network of paths stretches beyond the landscape gardens into the woodlands where you’ll find quaint riverside rambles, picturesque gorge walks and calf-burning hikes that promise incredible views."

"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."

"The Georgian-style Mansion House in York is the home of the city's Lord Mayors during their term in office. This is the earliest purpose-built house of this sort still in use – it predates the Mansion House in London by at least 20 years. The foundation stone for the building was laid in 1725, and it was completed seven years later, in 1732."

"We spent the afternoon wandering around, discovering Knaresborough’s main attractions: the ancient, crumbling castle overlooking one of the most stunning views I’ve ever seen, the House in the Rock, Mother Shipton’s Caves and the Petrifying Well. Whatever you do, you really can’t miss the imposing structure of the four-span stone viaduct high above the River Nidd. A stunning panorama, that makes for some wonderful shots."

"Mother Shipton’s Cave is one of England’s oldest tourist attractions. It gets its name from a prophetess who was raised in the cave and was said to be a witch, but that’s just one of the reasons to visit. The water inside is rich in sulphate and carbonate, so it covers everything in its path in a thick silt coating that looks like stone."

"Based in Horsforth, the kids will have a great time meeting the animals in the fields, including rheas, donkeys, geese, alpacas, prairie dogs, hens, goats and even a peacock. The grown ups, on the other hand, will enjoy browsing their shop where you can pick up fresh cuts of beef, chicken, pork, lamb and even their own handmade burgers. If you’re into fishing, make the most of their well stocked ponds which are open 7 days a week for you to grab a catch."

"If you’re wanting a restaurant in Leeds that offers a serious slice of theatre with your meal, then Teppanyaki will steal the show. These guys whip up traditional Japanese cuisine before your very eyes, because each table comes equipped with its own ‘teppan’ hotplate. Choose from a sumptuous selection of grilled goodies, like sticky duck teriyaki, king prawn and scallops in Tokyo butter, or a scene-stealing fillet steak with lobster tail, then watch your meal be sliced, sizzled and spun straight onto your plate."

"Teppanyaki showcases a quintessentially Japanese style of cooking which revolves around grilling. In fact, the word Teppan means Iron Hot Plate and Yaki means “to grill.” Well known for their welcoming yet sophisticated service, if you’re looking for somewhere with a social atmosphere, you could do worse than Teppanyaki. Perfect for those looking for something a little out-of-the-ordinary, their menu includes all kinds of wonderful dishes."

"If the answer is yes, you need to go and experience Teppanyaki. One of the best Japanese restaurants in Leeds, you get to experience an atmosphere similar to one you will have experienced if you have ever eaten in Japan. Watch as your skilled chefs cook your food in front of your own eyes to the best of standards, feel your jaw drop as they juggle and flip your food, throwing a dash of fire into the mixture."

"Shiitakeya are a small Japanese restaurant on Walmgate that also do takeaway. They have a lunchtime special from Monday-Friday, and otherwise serve dishes like Buta Shogayaki (sliced pork loin in sweet ginger sauce with rice, salad and miso soup on the side) or Chicken Teryaki Don (pan fried chicken glazed in soy sauce, mirin and sugar rice bowl with salad and miso soup on the side)."

"Celebrate with Afternoon Tea at York’s finest hotel starting at £25.50pp. Enjoy a tower of treats and themed experiences at The Rise Restaurant, and you can upgrade your Afternoon Tea with prosecco, champagne or G&T. Children’s Afternoon Tea and Private Bookings also available."

"Enjoy a sumptuous selection of the finest sandwiches, sweet and savoury snacks at this 5-star hotel in the heart of York. You’ll dine with a view of the historic city walls. A wonderful treat for all the family!"

"Based five miles away from the city centre, Village Hotel Leeds North is the perfect spa hotel in Leeds for those who don’t want to be directly in the heart of the bustling city atmosphere. This Leeds spa has everything you need in one place, we’re talking a pub & grill, gym, spa and of course amazing rooms. Take a dip in the heated swimming pool or unwind in the steam room during your stay, then get some rest in your room with premium bedding, a flat screen tv and even Wi-Fi."

"This modern hotel is located in the suburb of Headingley, roughly midway between the city centre and Leeds-Bradford International Airport. It has a certain blandness in terms of décor and atmosphere, but balances this with extensive health facilities including a large swimming pool and a superb gym."

"Founded by Senior Podiatrist, Oliver Highland-Edmonds, Heal Spa in Harrogate combines medical treatments with beauty therapies. Based in Harrogate’s beautiful Montpellier Quarter, Heal offers a wide range of treatments from qualified and dedicated practitioners. Their mission is to provide people with the highest quality health treatments but with a personal touch and luxurious elements to highlight the postive impact pampering can have on our general well-being."

"Imagine Spa at Dower House in Knaresborough, offers a truly tranquil spa experience in relaxing surroundings. They have a number of spa experience packages on offer, ranging in price from £25 for two hours in the thermal suite to £145 for a full day of pampering including two hours of treatments and three hours in the Thermal Suite. Experiences at Imagine Spa fall under three categories: Discover, Enrich or Induldge."