What are you doing this weekend?
October 22, 2017
Are you one of those people who never explore the attractions on your doorstep? Before Winter sets in why don’t you get out and explore what Wakefield has to offer?
The Grand Old Duke of York…
Did you know that the words of the well known nursery rhyme are thought to refer to Richard, Duke of York, claimant to the throne, and the Battle of Wakefield on 30th December 1460? During the War of the Roses, The Duke of York and his army marched to his castle at Sandal on top of the site of an old Norman motte and fortress. ‘He marched them up to the top of the hill’ in a moment of madness he left his stronghold in the castle and went down to make a direct attack on the Lancastrians. His army was overwhelmed and Richard, Duke of York met his untimely end. Unfortunately, this resulted in victory for the Lancastrians! It is still open to visitors today where you can walk around the earthworks and stone remains, including the impressive barbican.
Henry Moore and friends
Just a mile from junction 38 on the M1 is Yorkshire Sculpture Park which is free to enter, you only pay for car parking. The grounds are magnificent and you can admire the work of local sculptors including Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth amongst many others. Bring your children, your dog or come alone to enjoy the open air. There is also an impressive gift shop and café.
Living history
Many of our ancestors spent their working lives ‘down the pit’. It wasn’t an easy life but it provided a good living a sense of comradery for the men and a springboard to a better living for the working -class folks of Yorkshire and beyond. The last pit to close in Yorkshire was as recent as 2015. The National Coal Mining Museum is just a short drive from Wakefield and visitors can descend 140 metres into one of the oldest coal mines in Britain to discover what life was like for the people who worked there. You can also visit the Pit Ponies!
There are so many more places to visit around Wakefield and if we haven’t mentioned your favourite attraction, let us know where it is and we’ll take a visit.
