Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in West Haddlesey

"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."

"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."

"Set in beautiful parkland situated along the banks of the River Aire, the Kirkstall Abbey is an example of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. Restoring its historic architecture, the abbey also displays nature through its wildlife and greenery. The abbey was founded by Henry de Lacy, baron of Pontefract, who was one of the leading landholders in the North."

"Family friendly York Castle Museum is centrally situated near Coppergate Shopping Centre – green signs direct you to the ‘Castle Area’. Collections of Costume and Textiles, Military and Social History and a collection on York Castle’s most famous prisoner Dick Turpin, eventually hanged in 1739, all feature in exhibitions. A favourite with children, the recreated Victorian and Georgian rooms here display historic every day items from the collection of North Yorkshire country doctor John Kirk."

"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."

"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."

"Next, there’s no better way to escape the busy city than going for a stroll in Roundhay Park. The grand park covers over 700 acres and is just 3 miles north of Leeds City centre. Undeniably, it is one of the most popular parks in Leeds."

"Just below Tropical World are the beautiful Canal Gardens which again, despite being in the area many times exploring Roundhay Park I had never noticed before I ran past them during a lockdown run. I came back again a couple of weeks later with my new tripod (best purchase!!!) to photograph them. In Spring the rhododendrons are in full bloom in this peaceful place."

"Spurriergate is open for refreshments and meet-ups Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 2.30pm. We have free Friendly WiFi, a soft play area and a warm welcome. Come and meet your friends and make some new ones!"

"This lake is next to Leeds Bradford Airport but don't let that put you off. It's an easy, level walk where you can spot waterfowl as you stroll. Reach it via Cemetery Road, LS19 7UR."

"Here’s one of the best farms in Leeds for kids, but with a difference. Hope Pastures is all about rescuing and rehabilitating horses, ponies and donkeys. After they’ve managed to do that, they let people come and visit the animals seven days a week, learning all about them and how tp look after them as you go."

"Rodley Nature Reserve is a nature reserve dedicated to bringing wetland wildlife back in the area of Leeds. With regular sightings of different birds like owls, kingfishers, kestrels, lapwings and many others, you would certainly enjoy traversing the different paths that they have and be closer to nature through the amazing sights that they offer. A hidden gem, this wetland reserve can be considered a haven that offers a relaxing tour and walks around the area."

"Four miles west of the city centre, on the banks of the River Aire is this wetland nature reserve. With a lagoon, scrubland, wet grassland and reed beds it's a great place to stroll and spot waterfowl, birds of prey and other nature. Access it via Moss Bridge Road, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1HP."

"Olive & Rye, Queens Arcade, 18-20 Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6LF - Visit now. The humble sandwich is a lunchtime staple but forget about those boring meal deals, for the true sandwich experience head to Olive & Rye in the stunning Queen’s Arcade. And if you want to make your own at home, this superb deli is packed with meats, cheeses and chutneys."

"What: This rustic-chic café with wooden bench seating and scatter cushions provides a cosy start to the day. The breakfast menu features the indulgent likes of French toast topped with crème fraiche and blueberry compote, as well as an elevated take on a full English which includes crispy pork belly and sourdough toast. Where: 18-20 Briggate, LS1 6LF"

"Olive & Rye is a spacious, rustic cafe with creative dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. We’re talking chorizo baked beans on sourdough toast, buttermilk blueberry pancakes and homemade crumpets. They’ve also got a range of fresh sandwiches and salads, or you can just nip in for a brew and a slice of cake."

"This British Asian fusion restaurant offers a menu which spans continents and tantalises taste buds. They proudly offer many traditional curries, dabble in the odd Italian dish, and have a great selection of foods fresh from their flaming grill. The selection doesn’t end there, as they also offer hot drinks, milkshakes and mock-tails, to quench your thirst."

"Set up by Henry Moore to encourage people to appreciate visual art, as well as providing an invaluable resource for those studying sculpture, the Henry Moore Institute is a one of a kind attraction that absolutely mustn’t be missed. Their calendar of events brings a constant procession of world-class art and sculpture into the city, with exhibitions from the likes of Eleanor Antin, John Latham and Olga Jevrić. Henry Moore Institute, 74 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AH."

"Dominating the city centre is Trinity Leeds, an almost labyrinthine collection of the biggest shopping brands Leeds has to offer. The shopping centre opened in 2013, bringing the former Trinity and Buton Arcades under one shiny glass roof and redeveloping the Leeds Shopping Plaza into Trinity West. The is also home to the Everyman Cinema and a range of restaurants, plus Trinity Kitchen, a street-food-style food court with regular pop-up eateries and a proescco bar."

"Since opening in March 2013, Trinity Leeds has helped the city to become one of the best retail destinations in the UK. This shopper’s paradise houses more than 120 stores like Topshop, Urban Outfitters and Apple. After all that shopping, head to Trinity Kitchen for delicious street food from all over the world, catch the latest flick at Everyman Cinema or grab a drink with a view at The Alchemist and Angelica."