Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Majestic abbey ruins |
Long Causeway Bolton Abbey Estate Office Leeds BD23 6EX United Kingdom +44 1756 71 0533 http://www.boltonabbey.com |
Idyllically situated in Wharfedale, the Yorkshire estate of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire is a place of great natural beauty and historical interest. Test some of the 75 miles of footpaths which circle the estate on both low and high ground or walk through the Strid Wood - recent winner of a top award for environmental education facilities. The fearsome Strid a wound carved in the rock face by furious white water - is a wonderful sight but tread with care on the slippery rocks. The park beside the River Wharfe is a great place for a picnic and children can play safely in the shallow waters. Alternatively, visit the 800-year-old Priory, the Barden Tower and the parish church which contains 36 stained glass panels and several paintings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jfolkmann |
 Photo: jfolkmann |
 Photo: Gerald Farrar |
 Photo: JRoy10_lcad |
 Photo: Becca87 |
 Photo: Darren Thomas |
|
Queen Anne mansion in splendid grounds |
S Approach 5 miles south of Wetherby Leeds, West Yorkshire LS23 6ND United Kingdom +44 1937 844 265 |
Although it is most famous for its unique garden, Bramham Park would be outstanding in any setting. Modeled on a 16th-century Florentine villa, the house's ornate exterior is matched by a sumptuously furnished interior. It's a veritable treasure trove with paintings by Walker hanging above delicate Meissen porcelain and elegant Sheraton chairs. The grand house is set off by 66 acres of beautiful gardens - originally inspired by the gardens of the Palace of Versailles - which contain ornamental ponds, cascades and loggias. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Djenan Kozic  |
 Photo: Andy King |
 Photo: David J Abernethy |
|
Countryside architectural splendour |
The Stray Leeds Y060 7DA United Kingdom +44 1653 648 444 http://www.castlehoward.co.uk/ |
Anyone who makes the 60 minute drive from Leeds to this stunning English country stately home will not be disappointed. If it looks familiar, it's because it was the setting for the lavish 1980s television adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead Revisited. Built in the 18th century, the house's richly decorated interiors are complemented by the extravagant furnishings and keepsakes from many a Grand Tour. The grounds comprise over 1000 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, sculpted woods, fountains, follies and lakes. Plants, handmade glassware and other souvenirs are available from the stable courtyard - a quadrant of gift shops and cafes. Admission: Grounds, gardens and castle - adults £7.50, senior citizens £6.75, children £4.50 Grounds only - adults and senior citizens £4.50, children £2.50 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 One of England's great treasure houses |
Sandy Gate 7 miles from Leeds Leeds, Yorkshire LS17 9LG United Kingdom +44 113 218 1010 http://www.harewood.org/ |
With interiors by Adam and landscaped grounds by Capability Brown, this 18th-century Palladian-style country house is a treasure trove of classical design, fine art and furnishings. Wherever you look, you sill see furniture by Chippendale, the finest Chinese and Sèvres porcelain and hang paintings by Gainsborough and Turner. Within the 1000 acres of gardens there is a bird sanctuary and an adventure playground of truly gargantuan proportions. The Stables Courtyard offers a variety of refreshments and handcrafted gifts. Opening times and dates are seasonal - phone for details. Rates are increased on weekends, bank holidays, and public holidays. If you arrive by bus or bicycle, you get in at half the price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Facing North East |
 Photo: Jo |
 Photo: Luke Logan |
 Photo: cytoon |
 Photo: beats & 2 veg |
 Photo: Clare Stacey |
 Photo: Daniel Halliday |
 Photo: Richard Riley |
 Photo: David Marshall |
 Photo: Jules Li |
 Photo: Ian Massingham |
 Photo: lsthye_87 |
 Photo: Rebecca Wire |
 Photo: Mr John M Woolley |
 Photo: kris55 |
 Photo: eavolio |
 Photo: Jon Brett |
 Photo: gerryblackwell@rogers.com |
 Photo: howden joe |
 Photo: Weedude |
 Photo: Simon Parker |
 Photo: susan-collins.net |
 Photo: Sandy Smith |
 Photo: Quizziard PTeppic |
|
Elizabethan manor house and museum |
Castle Yard Church Street Leeds LS29 9DT United Kingdom +44 1943 60 0066 |
Lots of people who visit Leeds find themselves drawn to the historic and pretty town of Ilkley, just 20 minutes drive from the city centre. While you're there, it's essential that you seek out this hidden treasure. Located just off Church Street, this imposing Elizabethan manor house is full of exhibits and displays that tell of the town's Roman origins. The main attraction for most visitors is seeing the remains of the Roman fort upon which the present house was built, but make sure you don't miss the exciting displays of contemporary arts and crafts upstairs. Other highlights include Roman archaeological finds and 19th-century farmhouse and kitchen furniture. An activity centre runs a series of craft workshops for the artistically minded. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
One thousand years old and still standing |
Abbey Road Kirkstall Leeds LS5 3EH United Kingdom |
One of the city's key historical landmarks, this Cistercian abbey is a relic of the 12th century and a survivor of Henry VIII's attack on England's monasteries. Situated in an area of open parkland three miles west of the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey remains remarkably well preserved despite the ravages of history. Still standing to its original height, it gives visitors a true sense of its former scale and spiritual resonance. A wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Couvillion |
 Photo: Neil Fitzgerald |
 Photo: Facing North East |
 Photo: Matt Edgar |
 Photo: Lee |
 Photo: hazel saxelby |
 Photo: Daniel Bradberry |
 Photo: Jakk Hayes |
 Photo: R J Wright |
 Photo: Carrie A Bonnington |
 Photo: fulvio.scian |
 Photo: Tom |
 Photo: Tony Bevington |
 Photo: Scorpiowes |
 Photo: Erika Wiggins |
 Photo: Matthew Brownnutt |
 Photo: Dan Osborne |
|
A relic of Victorian Leeds |
Great George Street Leeds LS1 3EX United Kingdom +44 113 243 2799 |
Built between 1863 and 1868, this imposing Gothic brick structure is one of Leeds' most striking buildings. It is the work of Sir George Gilbert Scott who was also responsible for the Albert Memorial and St Pancras Station. The entrance hall is worth a visit (ask at reception) - its walls are adorned with bronze tablets commemorating past benefactors, directors and staff. On a wintry day, the infirmary is best viewed from the Hogshead pub opposite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Benjamin Balzer |
 Photo: penny earl |
 Photo: Iris Nagtegaal |
 Photo: Paul Holdsworth |
|
Historic family house |
Lotherton Lane (Aberford) Leeds LS25 3EB United Kingdom +44 113 281 3259 http://www.leeds.gov.uk/lother... |
As soon as you step into Lotherton Hall, you will be reminded of the elegance of a bygone age. Teeming with paintings, 19th-century furniture and silverware, the house is particularly famous for its collection of historical costumes. Communities of red and fallow deer live on the lovely grounds, which incorporate an Edwardian walled garden and bird sanctuary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: blackeyeddog_gallery |
 Photo: A.Talbot |
 Photo: krishna kishore maringanti |
 Photo: A.Talbot |
 Photo: anthony oldroyd |
 Photo: Eight8Ball |
 Photo: hrdnghm |
 Photo: Paula |
 Photo: dawn lou |
|
Fine 18th-century house in majestic grounds |
Doncaster Road Doncaster Road Leeds WF4 1QE United Kingdom +44 1924 86 3892 |
As soon as you step into Nostell Priory, you'll understand why it has been called one of the region's finest jewels. With a collection of Chippendale furniture that is unrivalled in Yorkshire and a breathtaking display of paintings by Pieter Breughel the younger, Nostell Priory is a veritable Aladdin's cave that it sure to delight and enchant. The splendour of the 18th-century house is matched by its beautiful grounds which are the perfect setting for a picnic. Look out for the rallies, fairs and concerts which are held here throughout the year. It is open from 31st March to 4th November. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jonathan Philpott |
 Photo: Paul Davies |
 Photo: Fabienne HB |
 Photo: Ian Nelson |
 Photo: Scott |
 Photo: starship trouper |
 Photo: Kerniggit |
 Photo: Patrick Froggatt |
 Photo: Andrew Walsh |
|
Romantic abbey ruins |
Rievaulx Bank Near York Leeds, West Yorkshire YO62 5LJ United Kingdom |
One of the few survivors of the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538, Rievaulx Abbey is one of Yorkshire's most important and beautiful Cistercian monuments. Founded in the 12th century, it was the first to be built in the north of England. Although it might lack the breathtaking stature of Fountains Abbey, its seclusion in the midst of some of the most stunning countryside in the region, gives it a charm and resonance of its own. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Great views of Rievaulx Abbey |
Rievaulx Bank Helmsley Leeds YO62 5LJ United Kingdom |
If you feel like a day away from the city, a visit to Rievaulx Abbey and Rievaulx Terrace is highly recommended. Offering breathtakingly beautiful views of the abbey and hills beyond, Rievaulx Terrace feels like it's a million light years away from the bustling streets of Leeds. Recharge your batteries by taking a stroll through the tree-encircled terrace where you will see the two famous 18th-century temples. The splendid Ionic temple features ceiling paintings, including copies of Italian masterpieces and original works such as the visual story of Hero and Leander. As impressive as these are, the temple's main attraction has got to be the English nature paintings. After you've satisfied your artistic appetite, why not sit and have a picnic under the trees? Admission: adults £3; children £1.50; families £7.50 Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Art, design, fashion, fine food, books and history! |
Victoria Road Saltaire, Shipley Leeds BD18 3LA United Kingdom +44 1274 53 1163 http://www.saltsmill.org.uk |
Whether you are interested in art, history or shopping, you are sure to enjoy a visit to this unique building. One of the highlights is the 1853 Gallery-a museum celebrating Sir Titus Salt and local-born artist David Hockney. There is also an innovative range of shops and cafes-don't miss the atmospheric art gallery-cum-bookshop and the lively diner above. When you've browsed around the mill, have a wander around the village (which boasts an interesting selection of Victorian buildings, cafes and antique shops) or along the Leeds-Liverpool canal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Harris |
 Photo: Nigel Homer |
 Photo: Jill Tindall |
 Photo: Foto43 |
 Photo: Kevin Burns |
|
Life since the 15th century |
Listers Road Leeds HX3 6XG United Kingdom +44 1422 35 2246 |
Whether you're hooked on history, wild about walking or fanatical about furniture, Shibden Hall will be sure to appeal to you. Dating back to the turn of the 15th century, the house offers a revealing insight into its inhabitants' way of life over the last 500 years. Although the highlight is the exhibition relating to the diarist Anne Lister, the remarkable collection of 17th- and 18th-century furniture is also well worth a glance. If history and furniture are not for you however, take a peaceful stroll through the 90 acres of parkland. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Almost 1000 years old |
High Street Leeds, North Yorkshire BD23 1AW United Kingdom +44 1756 79 2442 http://www.skiptoncastle.co.uk |
At over 900 years old, this castle has witnessed many major historical events, from the Crusades to the Civil War. However, it is remarkably well preserved and a visit here makes for a fun and interesting day out for all the family. Highlights include the grand banqueting hall and what must have been a very chilly bedchamber and privy. Those of a nervous disposition should probably avoid the trip into the dingy dungeon where visitors are often plunged into darkness for minutes at a time. Admission: adults £4.40, children £2.20, concs £3.80 Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Dubbed the "Hampton Court of the North" |
The Elm Walk Leeds LS15 0AE United Kingdom |
This magnificent Tudor-Jacobean mansion is bursting at the seams with history. Before it was rebuilt in the 17th century, the house belonged to the Knights Templar and the family of Lord Darnley, unlucky husband of Mary Queen of Scots. Aside from its absorbing history, Temple Newsam is worth visiting for its huge collection of old master paintings - including works by Titian and Rubens - and Chippendale furniture. The estate comprises 1500 acres of parkland which is used in the summer as a venue for high-profile pop and opera concerts. The grounds also play host to less glamorous attractions, namely the animals that make the on-site working farm the focus of regular school visits. Closed January and February. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Skeet |
 Photo: Dave Kilroy |
 Photo: Vera Low |
 Photo: Antony Barnes |
 Photo: Jamie Laramee |
 Photo: Sharon Dale |
 Photo: alexander cornelious |
 Photo: Miriam Fairchild |
 Photo: Adam Walters |
 Photo: Neil Matthews |
 Photo: Neil Bennion |
 Photo: Beverley Gormley |
 Photo: Hugmonster |
 Photo: Nick Efford |
 Photo: andy (robbo) robinson |
 Photo: yvonne_evans1980 |
 Photo: Daniel Nolan |
|
A fascinating day out |
Thwaite Lane Stourton Leeds LS10 1RP United Kingdom +44 113 249 6453 |
Leeds' industrial past is brought vividly to life at this heritage centre on the banks of the River Aire. The two fully operational waterwheels are amazing to behold but it's the history of the mill, its owners and workforce that really fascinates. The museum and restored workers' cottages offer an interesting - and often poignant - glimpse into what life was really like in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It's an especially pleasant place to visit in summer when you can have a riverside picnic. Closed during Jan and Feb. Admission: adults £2, concs £1, children (accompanied by an adult) 50p. Free entry on 26 and 27 Nov. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Badkitti |
 Photo: Jan Dolan |
|
An architectural delight |
Victoria Square Leeds LS1 3AD United Kingdom +44 113 224 3801 |
A stunning hybrid of classical Greek and baroque styles, this mid-19th century public building is perhaps Leeds' most well-known landmark. Built by Charles Broderick between 1853 and 1858, it features a façade of giant columns supporting an elaborate domed tower. The richly decorated interior is equally spectacular, with statues by Matthew Noble sitting beneath ornate plaster ceilings. As well as being of great historical and architectural interest, the Town Hall is one of the city's premier music venues, hosting events including Lunchtime Organ Music and the International Concert Season. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ade_mcfade@yahoo.com |
 Photo: Tom Smith |
 Photo: Dave Graham |
 Photo: Jon Pinder |
 Photo: Reinhold Behringer |
 Photo: Rick Harrison |
 Photo: moniqca |
 Photo: Ben Anderson |
 Photo: Paula Goodale |
 Photo: Jono Kenyon |
 Photo: Caius Durling |
 Photo: Johnny Knight |
 Photo: Dayat Samsudin |
 Photo: sylvia cebula |
 Photo: Iris Garrelfs |
 Photo: nat j. gruca |
 Photo: dillonla |
 Photo: shazli87 |
 Photo: Paul Chris Brown |
 Photo: mitternach |