Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Saddleworth Moor

"The perfect park for picnics, relaxing by the River Aire and leisurely strolls around one of the best surviving medieval Cistercian abbeys in Britain, Kirkstall Abbey has 24 hectares of parkland for you to explore. The park stretches from Abbey Mills Wildflower Meadows, which is carpeted in bluebells in the spring, past the tennis courts on the far side and over the road to the playground and fields on either side of Abbey House Museum. Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH."

"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"

"As I mentioned just before, Manchester Cathedral is located in the city centre, so you don’t have to walk far. Actually, most of the photo locations in Manchester are located very close to each other, so at no point, you have to walk for more than 20-25 minutes. However, there are free buses in Manchester, so if it rains, you can definitely hop on one and head to Manchester Cathedral."

"Manchester Cathedral has been around since 1215, but has gone through multiple refurbishments. It’s not a massive cathedral but is a nice way to spend an hour or so. Entrance is free (although donations are encouraged)."

"One of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park sprawls over more than 700 acres and welcomes more than a million visitors each year. Four miles (or an 18-minute car journey) from the city centre, the park offerd lakes, woodlands, formal gardens, cafes, two playgrounds and Tropical World. There is also the grand Mansion, now an event space for weddings and corporate events."

"Roundhay Park is one of the most popular attractions in Leeds. With over 700 acres of land, the area is a fusion of woodlands, lakes, formal gardens, cafes and playgrounds. It also houses Tropical World, a place where you can experience different exotic animals like meerkats, monkeys, crocodiles, butterflies and many others."

"Temple Newsam House, a magnificent 40-room Tudor-Jacobean mansion, is a must-see when in Leeds. Set in a sprawling 900-acre park on the city's outskirts, it's famous as the birthplace of Lord Darnley, the husband of Mary Queen of Scots. Interior highlights include a variety of Old Master paintings, as well as furniture by Thomas Chippendale and collections of Leeds creamware and silver."

"Head three miles out the centre to the historic Temple Newsam, it is easily accessible from the city by car, bus and Uber. Take in your surroundings in the country estate by enjoying the picturesque grounds, operational farm and extraordinary house. Uncover the many walking trails, sport facilities and there is even a GoApe here for the adrenaline junkies at an extra cost."

"The Abbey House Museum, once the Great Gate House to Kirkstall Abbey, contains meticulously reconstructed shops and houses that evoke Victorian Leeds, plus rotating exhibitions mostly aimed at kids."

"The Victoria Quarter of Leeds is a series of Victorian shopping arcades whose opulent style and extravagance have led them to house some of the most expensive retail stores in Leeds. The County Arcade is perfect for an Instagram shot with its wonderful mosaic floor, gilt designs and marble columns…"

"Although not a royal castle by any stretch of the imagination, Roundhay Park has its own castle that sits within its grounds (btw don’t worry – Roundhay Park will get its own mention later on 🤪). Grab a shot that looks like you travelled miles away into the countryside when really you’re only about ten minutes away from home with this spot. Nicholson added the folly in the guise of a medieval gateway in the 1820s and after its construction it was used a summer house and a hunting lodge."

"South of the border' passion is always served up at Chiquito. A menu of bold Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine is prepared however the diner likes it."

"This ethical and sustainable café and coffee shop is leading the way in Leeds’ #eatyourgreens movement. They source ingredients locally before serving up delicious meals in a funky renovated warehouse. Grub & Grog comes from the same people as Sheaf St., and their impact on the vegan food scene here in Leeds has certainly not gone unnoticed."

"The Grub and Grog Shop is a great shout for brunch in Leeds. They’ve got an eclectic menu that means you can stick with the classics or go for something a little more adventurous. If you’re playing it safe, you can tuck into crumpets, bacon sarnies and eggs on sourdough, but the real fun lies in their more creative options."

"It’s got food, drink, outdoor seating in the warmer months, and an excellent selection of vegetarian options. So, take a seat, boot-up the free wi-fi, and order yourself some fresh veggies. Or some fresh bread with jam."

"This vegetarian and vegan bistro bar in Levenshulme is currently operating as a deli, takeaway and off license under the current restrictions. Dishes include a Superfood Salad, Jackfruit Curry and a Full Bonanza Breakfast with scrambled tofu, vegan sausages and Holy Grain sourdough with vegan butter. Call on 0161 257 2412 or pop in."

"They serve unreal kebabs, fried chick’n and sides, and the best part is, everything on the menu is completely vegan friendly!. My personal favourite is the fried chick’n combo with buffalo sauce. However, everything I’ve tried from there is amazing, so I can promise you that you won’t be disappointed!"

"Indulge in one of Leeds’ biggest brunch menus whilst taking up residence in the electric and chic Ivy located in the Victoria Quarter. The vibrant and majestic interior provides the perfect setting for both special occasions and casual dining. Completely embracing the art of brunch, The Ivy has created a menu that perfects the balance between breakfast and lunch, featuring plates such as the roast beef sandwich, Keralan sweet potato curry and a wide variety of traditional brunch dishes."

"So swish, so swanky – The Ivy is new to Leeds’ iconic Victoria Quarter. The luxe and maximalist interior styling is sure to woo your beau (we’re obsessed with the colour clashes and on point tropical prints). And the attentive service will have you both feeling like royalty."

"Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by The Ivy Victoria Quarter (@theivyleeds) on Sep 19, 2018 at 7:26am PDT"