Must See Sights and Landmarks in Rastrick Area

"If you're looking for somewhere with a bit of history, then look no further than Kirkstall Abbey. The giant Gothic building is a former Cistercian monastery which was built in the 12th Century and the sheer scale of the structure is still breathtaking (and award-winning) in this day and age. Nowadays though, it embraces modern life with a monthly market and other events inside the walls of the Abbey, while the open spaces on the banks of the River Aire are the perfect spot to unwind."

"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."

"Few locations can top the spectacular backdrop offered by the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, and with 24 hectares of parkland surrounding it, you can enjoy a romantic stroll before asking that all important question."

"Dating back to the 15th century, the Manchester Cathedral has experienced quite a bit of history! After Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church, the Cathedral's riches were confiscated. During the English Civil war in the mid 17th century, pitched battles were fought inside and around the Cathedral between the Royalists (those supporting Charles I, the Stewarts, and the Anglican Church) and the Roundheads (Oliver Cromwell loyalists). Also Ann Lee, the founder of the religious movement called the Shakers interrupted services here when she lived in Manchester. The church was targeted by the Nazi Luftwaffe and received a direct head during the bombings of 1940. Yet through all this the Church maintains it's quiet dignity and beauty. It is a must see while in Manchester!"

"Manchester Cathedral is located on Victoria Street, in between the National Museum of Football and Victoria Station. Although the origins of the cathedral are not clear, the construction is believed to have started around 700 AD. At the time though, it was just a church."

"This summer holidays Abbey House Museum will welcome some of your favourite fairy tale characters and creatures as the Victorian Streets are taken over by them!. Captain Hook has managed to stop the clocks ticking in the pub, a marvellous pumpkin patch has sprung up in the middle of the street and there are a mischief of magical mice helping Cinderella make a ball gown before the clock strikes twelve!. You can even pick up a bumper craft bag to take home filled with activities to keep the kids entertained."

"As this attraction was once short-listed for the Museum Family Friendly Award you can expect just that from it. It contains crafted sets, made to look like the enchanting streets, shops and houses that you would have seen during the Victorian era. You can interact with all of the actors in traditional Victorian costumes, or even sneak into a recreated model of a Victorian drinking house if you’re in need of a little rest."

"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."

"Leeds really knows how to do shopping centres with character. This Grade I listed building from 1863 might not see any corn traded these days, but it’s a drop-dead gorgeous place to shop, dine and soak in the atmosphere. It’s the place to go if you want to support independents, with start-up clothes shops, vintage treasure troves and vendors of the unusual all to be found here."

"Another on is Cuthbert Boderick’s architectural designs in Leeds is the Corn Exchange. Situated alongside Kirkgate -the oldest street in Leeds, it was completed by 1864. Probably one of the most beautiful examples of Victorian architecture in the city, it was built with an impressive glass dome roof to allow merchants to see the corn they were purchasing from traders."

"Leeds Corn Exchange is a Grade 1* listed building and shopping centre based in the heart of Kirkgate, Leeds. Designed by revered British architect Cuthbert…"

"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."

"Harewood House is a grandiose 18th-century country home, set in stunning gardens – and it’s full of art. The watercolours are at the heart of their extensive collection – they have paintings by the likes of JMW Turner, Thomas Girtin and John Varley. You can also see temporary exhibitions by modern artists, works by masters of the Italian Renaissance and family portraits by the likes of Reynolds, Hopper and Lawrence."

"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."

"The B29 Overexposed Crash Site is an exciting and memorable Peak District walk, as it is a site where 13 people tragically lost their lives in 1948. We recommend exploring the area but also be respectful as it is a memorial. It is interesting how after 70 years, you can still see vast parts of the wreckage."

"The generous portions and freshly-cooked food at Mother Hubbard’s is sure to keep you coming back for more. Pop in and try their traditional menu, which combines light and crispy battered fish with a nice cup of tea. Check out the ‘wrapped in newspaper’ decor too – everything from the walls to the food containers have been decorated in old newspaper headlines and front pages, so you’ll have plenty to read while you chow down."

"I’ve had something of a hit-and-miss relationship with Atkinsons, the Lancaster-based coffee roaster and tea merchant. I’ve enjoyed Atkinsons’ coffee over the years and regularly run into the team at events such as the Manchester Coffee Festival. I even made a special stop in Lancaster in 2017 to visit one of the three Atkinson coffee shops there, but was foiled by IT problems which delayed my arrival until gone midnight…"

"Restoring the former Smithfield Market and creating a busy, atmospheric dining destination for Mancs to enjoy, Mackie Mayor has long been a favourite for locals – with bars, coffee shops and restaurants to enjoy inside. Situated in the Northern Quarter, guests can enjoy tacos, pizzas, wines, fried chicken, succulent beef and so much more, with tons of vendors to try during your visit. Mackie Mayor, 1 Eagle St, M4 5BU."

"Mackie Mayor is a hip food market refurbished from the shell of the historic Smithfield Market, originally opened in 1858. Come for the artisanal local food options like Fin Fish Bar and Baohouse, stay for the industrial design and glass ceiling."

"Another luxe offering from the San Carlo group, this fun (and date-worthy) Italian restaurant in Manchester follows the signature style of sister sites. Head to Fumo to find sunny splashes of yellow from the banquette seating through to an eye-catching wall feature."

"The San Carlo chain certainly seems to know what it's doing, so the arrival of Fumo - its fifth restaurant in Manchester - is exciting most welcome."

"84-86 King Street, Manchester M2 4WQ EnglandItalian, Pizza, European, HealthyLunch, Dinner, Brunch, DrinksDelivery, Outdoor Seating, Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Serv[email protected]+44 161 832 5435http://www.pizzaexpress.com/manchester-king-street"