Proudly sitting on rolling, landscaped grounds, the stately Temple Newsam is steeped deep in history. Having been under the ownership of several notable personalities and organizations including the Knights Templar, this house is today under the watchful eye of the Leeds City Council. The house bears incredible influences of Tudor and Jacobean styles of architecture and is home to dense drapes of woodland, farms, charming open spaces and a walkway lined with blooming rhododendrons. Part of what makes the site so absorbing is the wealth of artworks and cultural pieces which are wonderful remnants of its artistic phase, including decorative artifacts by the Department of Culture and stirring exhibits by the Chippendale Society. The estate comprises large acres of parkland which is used in the summer as a venue for high-profile pop and opera concerts. An exuberant representation of the English countryside, Temple Newsam is a timeless edifice portraying rich cultural nuances stringed together with an indelible history.
Settled along the banks of River Aire, Kirkstall Abbey is a marvelous amalgamation of scenic greens and historic architecture. One of Leeds's key historical landmarks, this sprawling abbey remains remarkably well preserved despite the ravages of history. Situated in an area of open parkland west of the city center, Kirkstall Abbey still stands to its original height, lending a true sense of its former scale and spiritual resonance. Its ruins are a muse to many artists, whispering secrets of its storied past through the high arches and narrow alleys. A moving relic of the 12th Century, the abbey bears many more spectacular architectural elements like vaulted cellars, ancient quarters and an idyllic cloister. A soulful embodiment of the Cistercian design, Kirkstall Abbey is an insightful nod to the glory of Henry de Lacy, its master, and the monks who flourished in its fabric.
Fringed by rambling green lawns on all four sides, the stately Harewood House exudes unbounded architectural splendour coupled with enigmatic historic nuances. With interiors by Robert Adam and landscaped grounds by Capability Brown, this 18th-century Palladian-style country house is a treasure trove of classical design, fine art and opulent furnishings. Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, the house is one of the four Treasure Houses of England, boasting ornate furniture by Chippendale, and the finest Chinese and Sèvres porcelain and paintings by Gainsborough and Turner. The very presence of Harewood House is further accentuated by a lake, antiquated stables and the subtle, yet exquisite Harewood cascades. Within its wonderfully-landscaped 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. With a plethora of stories left unearthed in its fabric, the Harewood House is indeed a canvas of history waiting to be explored.
As soon as you step into Lotherton, 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. There is a small cafe as well, where you can get refreshments.
Built-in 1863 by Cuthbert Brodrick, Leeds Corn Exchange is one of the finest and beautiful examples of the Victorian style of architecture. Built-in a circular shape the building is as beautiful inside as it is on the outside. It is now one of the prominent shopping centers of the city, you can find small shops with gift cards, vintage artifacts, items of clothing and a large variety of food to choose from.
Countless riveting details come together to form the glorious York Minster, a masterpiece of Gothic design and ecclesiastical art. Built between 1220 and 1480, the cathedral features among northern Europe's largest medieval churches and is the seat of the Archbishop of York. Originally a 7th-century chapel built for the baptism of King Edwin of Northumbria, excavations have revealed the vestiges from the Norman and Roman periods as well, shedding light on its long and eventful history as a religious center. The intricate facade is aptly matched by an equally lavish interior, its design spanning the breadth of the Gothic period with elements of the Early English, Decorated and Perpendicular styles enmeshed with one another. Of special note is the cathedral's stained glass windows, with the Great East Window being the world's largest span of medieval glass. High above it all arch the striking vaulted ceilings of the York Minster, the United Kingdom's grande dame of Gothic architecture.
The Whitechapel Church in Cleakheaton is site filled with rich history. The structures that have stood on this ground have supported Roman Catholic, Puritan, Methodist Anglican and other such Christian denominations over the ages. Originally built in the 11th century with a Norman style structure, the building has gone through couple of changes over the centuries. The present building was built in the beginning of the 19th century and though there have been a few additions, the church has stood strong in time. Another interesting legend that draws tourists is that, this place is thought to be a church that Robin Hood was part off. Visit this congregation to feel the sense of rich history in its walls.
St Thomas' Church, Friarmere, was built in 1765, and is often referred to as Heights Church by the locals. This redundant church is set at a tranquil location with splendid views of the surrounding countryside. The church is simple, yet beautiful topped with a 19th-century bellcote. Inside you will find wooden galleries on three sides, an impressive ceiling and a Venetian east window with stained glass. Although redundant, it is easy to imagine what a warm and intimate setting it would have once been when the congregation came together in worship. Visitors are welcome and the key to the church can be obtained from the near by Royal Oak Pub.
St John and St Mary Magdalene Church, Goldthorpe, is a fascinating church for a number of reasons. Built in 1916, the church is the first ferro-concrete one to be built in England. This beautiful Italian style building, with its tasteful and elegant decorations, is the only one of its kind in the region. Inside, the church is bright and beautifully adorned with a number of figures and paintings. There is also a modern stained glass window, which was installed in honor of the village's mining heritage. Visitors are welcome to join in any of the regular services held at the church throughout the week.
Just like the Church of Christ the Consoler at Skelton-on-Ure, St Mary's Church at Ripon was built in memory of Frederick Vyner after he was killed by the brigades in Greece before his family could accumulate the ransom demanded by his captors. While this magnificent structure will forever be marked by its tragic origins, it is nonetheless a truly splendid testament to the skill and vision of the architect William Burges. Built in an Early English style, the church is lavishly decorated inside and out with numerous fine details and opulent decorations. Replete with elaborate carvings, guilded ceilings, patterns in colored marble, finely crafted stone work and vibrant stained glass windows, the interiors of the church are nothing short of jaw-dropping. Although generously endowed with rich details, the refinement shown in their design prevents the overall effect from being a garish one; rather the church possesses a rare and remarkable grace. Currently under the care of English Heritage, this Grade I listed building is open to visitors.
The Church of Christ the Consoler is a truly magnificent architectural gem, designed by the renowned architect William Burges. The church was commissioned by Lady Mary Vyner in memory of her son Frederick Vyner, who was captured and killed by the brigands in Greece before the requisite ransom could be collected. Although born of tragedy, this magnificent structure is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and fine architectural design. Lavishly decorated inside and out, the church is replete with elaborate carvings, colorful mosaics, and patterns in marble. Rich and opulent details abound around every corner, harmoniously blending in to each other to form a sight that is unbelievably beautiful. Designated a Grade I listed building by English Heritage, the church is currently under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust and is open to visitors daily.
Frederick VynerFrederick Vyner
St Michael and All Angels Church, built around 1650 sits in the village of Great Houghton in South Yorkshire. Dedicated to one of the four archangels, this church was formerly a private chapel. Constructed by Sir Edward Rodes, a conspicuous Parliamentarian, this church was used for worship by his family and tenants. Baptism of the young sons of Sir Edward was the very first religious ceremony that occurred in the church. Located at the end of church street, this chapel has a simple design and still maintains the old charm.