Must See Sights and Landmarks in Todmorden Area

"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."

"We talk about Kirkstall Abbey a lot, but it’s only because it really is very special. Built sometime around 1152, this ancient abbey was inhabited by monks for almost four centuries, until Henry VIII closed all of the monasteries down. There’s so much history here, and while wandering around you can really begin to imagine what the abbey was like almost 1000 years ago, when it was first built."

"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."

"One of the oldest buildings in Manchester, the Cathedral has a vast and extensive history that can be traced back to humble beginnings in the 7th century, becoming a Cathedral in 1847. Having survived significant damage during both World War II and the IRA bomb, the Cathedral has undergone extensive refurbishment several times over the past century, creating a lovingly preserved building that appears much more modern than it actually is. The Cathedral is open to the public, who can admire the architecture and numerous little quirks inside, including the misericord wood carvings and bees on the roof."

"Standing proud since 1421 when Henry V signed a royal charter granting permission for a collegiate church to be built, the iconic Manchester Cathedral has survived world wars, bombings and the industrial revolution first hand. Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and carved ceilings as you wander around the building and listen to the sound of choristers and jazz that is often playing. If you want to learn more about the building there are guided tours every day at 11 am and 2 pm Monday to Saturday."

"Dating back to 1215, Manchester Cathedral offers a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The official name is actually “The Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George” and is one amazing sight that needs to be seen in the city. It’s well worth a wander around to see the gorgeous architecture, especially as it has been so well preserved."

"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."

"This magnificent, Grade 1 listed building first opened its doors in 1864 to corn traders. Marvel at the independent eateries and retailers and if you are lucky they will have one of their exciting events happening. For example, the Rum Festival or if you visit in October experience art in the dark at Light Night Leeds."

"This is one place where history and pleasure of shopping come together. Leeds Corn Exchange is a Victorian building that was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick in 1864. It is now just one of three Corn Exchanges in the country and works in its traditional capacity as a centre for trade."

"Visitors to Harewood House will be pleasantly surprised by the array of attractions on offer. Not only can the house and gardens be admired, but there is also a farm experience and a series of interesting events including theatrical performances and costume exhibitions. Visitors can even visit the resident Humboldt penguins at feeding time!"

"A romantic 32-acre (13-hectares) lake sets the tone for a romantic stroll on the grounds of Harewood House, exploring which is one of the best things for couples to do in Leeds. The swooping riverbanks serve as the perfect spot to chill and sit beside each other. Walk around the lush garden filled with colorful rhododendrons and daffodils."

"Harewood House was built in the 18th century and is one of the Treasure Houses of England. Located just outside Leeds in the heart of Yorkshire, visitors of Harewood House can enjoy art exhibitions, the Rare Bird Garden, Farm Experience and over 100 acres of well-manicured gardens. It is a must on the places to visit in Leeds."

"In the near centre of Wakefield sits the magnificent Wakefield Cathedral, or the even grander title of the Cathedral Church of All Saints in Wakefield. Although we owe the Victorians for Wakefield Cathedral’s current appearance, restored and reopened in 1888, it has been a place of worship since the 9th-century, and has even been mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086. Today, anyone can come and have an informal, 45 minute tour of this historic cathedral, with no booking required and completely free!"

"Another incredibly old building, Wakefield Cathedral is the tallest church in Yorkshire and has a long and fascinating history. Although it has been developed and rebuilt at various points over the past 900 years, the building which exists today dates back to the 14th century. Its 247-foot tall spire is visible from many of the suburbs of Wakefield and even beyond on a clear day."

"Based in Horsforth, the kids will have a great time meeting the animals in the fields, including rheas, donkeys, geese, alpacas, prairie dogs, hens, goats and even a peacock. The grown ups, on the other hand, will enjoy browsing their shop where you can pick up fresh cuts of beef, chicken, pork, lamb and even their own handmade burgers. If you’re into fishing, make the most of their well stocked ponds which are open 7 days a week for you to grab a catch."

"The Pendle Heritage Centre sits right at the heart of Lancashire’s hill country beside an ancient crossing of Pendle water. The gallery and craft shop offer displays of work and exhibitions by professional crafts people and artists, while the museum contains a wealth of information about the history and development of the farmhouse."

"Boasting the largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew Gardens, Tropical World is also popular for its adorable meerkats, terrapins, turtles, tropical birds and butterflies (which are free to flutter around the attraction). As the name suggests, the tropical origins of its inhabitants mean the attraction is kept warm and humid - but you soon adapt to the balmy setting. Tropical World, Princes Avenue, Roundhay LS8 1DF (within Roundhay Park)."

"The Tropical World at Roundhay Park has become one of the most coveted family attractions in Leeds. Situated just three miles from the city centre, this terrain is great to take a trek through the rainforest, relax in the simulated environs of Australia and to take a quick excursion through the desert. This is one of the best ways to learn the tropical habitat...Read more"

"Fitting in perfectly with our list is Tropical World, which is actually situated in Roundhay Park. This is fantastic for you, not only is it a popular attraction but it will also offer you some shelter from the weather should it turn bad. There is a small admission fee of £5 for adults, or £2.50 for children, but it’s more than worth it for what you’ll be seeing."

"La Cour Brasserie is a Parisian-style bistro, known for its classy decor, attentive service and scrumptious food. They serve up a menu of French inspired dishes using the best local produce – think boeuf bourguignon, duck in caramelised port sauce and moules marinières, with a host of tempting desserts to boot. La Cour Brasserie, 194 New Road Side, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4DP."

"Savour the best cuisine of both France and Yorkshire at the elegant Le Bistro De Amis. Pop in for a coffee and sweet treat, relish a freshly prepared salad or sandwich or treat a loved one to a meal from their A La Carte offering. Menu specialities include chargrilled venison, pan roasted chicken breast and twice-cooked pork belly."