Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Yorkshire

"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."

"Grade I listed Kirkstall Abbey sits in leafy grounds and offers a snapshot into the lives of the monks who resided there. Entry to the dramatic ruins is free through the visitor centre, which illustrates the history of the abbey, which was surrendered to Henry VIII during the dissolution of the monasteries. The abbey grounds also host regular farmers markets, open cinema events and Christmas fairs."

"Henry VIII had a great impact on Britain’s history, but did you know he was partially responsible for Kirkstall Abbey?. The 12th century monastery was disestablished by Henry in the 16th century, but is still standing today and is easily one of the most picturesque landmarks in Leeds. View this post on Instagram"

"Clifford’s Tower, a semi-ruined 13th-century remnant of York Castle, is also one of the few Norman relics in a city dominated by Viking influence. Nowadays, Clifford’s Tower is one of the most popular and emblematic sights in York, and the panoramic views from the tower’s ramparts make it an excellent starting point for first-time visitors to historic York."

"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."

"The striking contrast of Clifford’s Tower with the green bank of grass it sits on is a classic photo to snap of York!. Make the short (but steep) climb to the top and venture inside for a panorama of York."

"If you’re craving green space, head to one of the largest city parks in Europe to spend an afternoon walking the dog or simply sunbathing on one of the many lawns. Roundhay Park is a popular spot all year round with a variety of lakes, meadows and forests to walk around and explore. Roundhay Park | © Chemical Engineer / Wikimedia | © Chemical Engineer / Wikimedia"

"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."

"It's autumn and your are itching to start planning your Bonfire Night celebrations - Roundhay Park has you covered with a massive bonfire in this beautiful park!"

"Harewood House, seat of the Earl of Harewood, is a magnificent Georgian country house that took 30 years to build and was completed in 1771. Just eight miles north of Leeds, this spectacular home has interiors designed by Robert Adam and includes fine wall and ceiling paintings by Angelika Kauffmann and furniture by renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale. As well as an outstanding collection of porcelain, it has a large number of valuable works by the likes of Reynolds, Gainsborough, and El Greco."

"Are you looking to view an estate house with both a history and a twist?. That’s exactly what Harewood House has to offer to you, while constantly striving to stay relevant it also manages to keep a firm grip on the past, with some of the finest art collections in England. The short trip out of the city centre shouldn’t put you off, buses run directly to and from Leeds City Centre every 15 minutes, and you’ll even get the chance to see penguins, flamingos and parrots."

"Situated within “capability” Brown designed landscape, this historic Georgian property offers breathtaking views from its terraces. Inside the house, you can see rare Chippendale furniture and exquisite interior designs in the State Rooms. Also, do take out time to explore the corridors Below Stairs."

"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."

"Merchant Adventurers’ Hall on Fossgate is one of the finest medieval guild halls in existence. A fascinating museum also available for weddings and events (great vintage fairs take place here), the venue’s centrepiece is the Great Hall where medieval merchants once gathered. A collection on display inside includes a range of fine silver, paintings and furniture."

"York's most impressive semi-timbered building is still owned by the fraternity that built it almost 650 years ago and it is the oldest surviving guildhall of its kind in Britain. The owner was originally a..."

"Nestled between York Minster and Monk Bar “Little Italy” was established by owners Andrea & Mandy Gaias in January 1992, and as a result of endless dedication have built up an enviable reputation as one of York’s finest Italian restaurants offering gourmet cuisine to satisfy the most discerning tastes. 12 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LQT: 01904 623539"

"Cosy family run Italian just a few minutes’ walk away, very popular for evening meals so you should book in advance. Nice deli counter for take-away food. (Closed Wednesdays).www.littleitalyrestaurantyork.co.uk"

"Gourmet cuisine in a cosy, bare-brick setting with regular cookery demos and a downstairs deli. Well worth a visit if you are in the area!. Address : 12 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LQ, UK"

"Shambles Market is a long-established outdoor city centre market open 7 days a week selling local produce, crafts & clothing, as well as serving up some impressive lunchtime street food. Enjoy a slice of authentic Italian homemade pizza from Pizzoli’s or pick out a tasty pastry from Café M and watch the world go by. If you’re on a health kick and need some fast healthy food, look no further, KERP serves up some of the freshest produce around."

"One of the most Instagrammable and photogenic spots in York is the York Market (Shambles Market). While the market itself as well, like a regular market, the buildings surrounding the market are incredible for taking photos."

"Spark:York is a place that looks and feels like no other venue in York. It’s a vibrant, relaxed place to eat and drink, with kids or without, and a good option if you’d like a range of food and drink to choose from and take away (or eat there). There’s a changing rota of pop-up bars and restaurants, but if you imagine craft ales, edgy cocktails and some of the best street food in town, you’re not too far from the mark."

"When to go: When you fancy something quick, casual and can’t decide so visit more than one. What to have: The buttermilk fried chicken burgers from Clucking Oinks are unbeatable. Wash one down with an ice-cold can of craft beer from resident bar Piccadilly Tap."

"Sparks is a relatively new addition to York and it has quickly become known as a local hotspot. Popular with everyone, Sparks has loads of different food spots but if you’re vegan or veggie, head straight to Donner Summer’s for kebabs, hot dogs and more."

"FREE WI-FI The Unicorn is one of Ripons oldest and most historic inns.The hotel reopened in April 2011, following a £2.1million refurbishment and is part of the JD Wetherspoon hotel group. It is the largest building on the market place and has featured…"

"Situated amongst local tourist attractions, The Unicorn Hotel Wetherspoon is a 10-minute walk from from Ripon Cathedral. It also offers a 24-hour reception, wireless internet and a wake-up service."

"Proving the best baked goods don’t always have to be sweet, this independent sandwich bakery serves the most delicious selection of Italian breads, which are all handcrafted on site. Rotating more than 200 fillings, you’ll be sure to find a lunch time snack here that you won’t forget in a hurry. Visit: 164 Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9HB"

"Humpit Hummus was never really a place I’d thought of eating at until I was invited to review it last year. I’m so pleased that I did give it a chance though, as it’s one of the best vegan places in York!. The premise of Humpit is almost like a ridiculously healthy kebab; you choose from a selection of dishes including pitas and salad bowls and then add all the fresh ingredients alongside your hummus!"

"Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing. The Humpit began in 2014 with a dream to create real authentic hummus and to be able to enjoy it with a warm pita. Five years later, the Humpit has established itself in the York community."

"Christmas isn't far away guys and we have some new festive sides coming soon!. Keep your eyes peeled for more info. Established in 2014, Humpit has, in just five years, become one of the top go-to places for a delightful dining experience."