There is a wide range of things to do in Wakefield, Massachusetts. The town was incorporated in 1812 and is part of the Greater Boston metro area. It is 12.5 miles northwest of downtown Boston and has a population of 27,090 as of the 2020 census. Visitors to Wakefield can enjoy many different activities in and around the town’s beautiful lake.
North Ave Diner
There are many things to do in Wakefield, Massachusetts, and North Avenue Diner is one of them. This diner, located in the southern Greenwood section of Wakefield, has been serving up the North Shore’s best roast beef since WWII. This local favorite is famous for its “Super Beef Plate” which includes a heaping mountain of fries and onion rings. The extensive menu also includes regional seafood favorites.
North Ave Diner is a popular destination for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast is served all day, and the menu includes many classic American dishes. Breakfast burritos, French toast, and Belgian waffles are also available. The restaurant also serves eggs benedicts and breakfast burritos. The ambiance is warm, and the prices are affordable.
The downtown area of Wakefield is home to a variety of local attractions. The town is home to Lake Quannapowitt, which is a 254-acre great pond. A wood and granite bandstand sits right on the water, and there’s a farmers’ market on the Common in the summer.
Sandal Castle
Sandal Castle and Visitors Centre is a museum in Wakefield that contains exhibits on Weapons and War, Architecture, Social History, and Archaeology. The Castle is open to the public every day from 9am to 4pm. Visitors can also enjoy craft activities. The castle is located near Wakefield Westgate.
The castle dates back to the early 12th century. It was built by William de Warenne, who received the Manor of Wakefield from Henry I in 1106. It is likely that the first constructions were completed by around 1130. Rebuildings in stone began towards the end of the 12th century and continued for much of the 13th century. In 1317, the castle was attacked and captured by the Thomas Earl of Lancaster. Despite the capture, the castle continued to develop under the de Warennes family until 1361.
The first surviving record of Sandal Castle is from around 1240, but it is thought that the castle was built much earlier. The castle was most likely constructed by William de Warenne, Second Earl of Surrey, who received Wakefield as a reward for his assistance to King Henry I during the Battle of Tinchebray (1106). The castle was a timber and earth motte and bailey fortification and served as the administrative center of the manor of Wakefield.
Wakefield Cathedral
If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in West Yorkshire, you should consider visiting the Wakefield Cathedral. Also known as the Cathedral Church of All Saints in Wakefield, the cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Leeds and is equal in size to Ripon and Bradford Cathedrals.
The cathedral is located in the heart of the city and has a rich 800-year history. It was originally built in the Saxon period and has undergone several major iterations. However, the current church you see is the result of a Victorian restoration that took place between 1858 and 1874. It was then given the title of cathedral in 1888. You can also see its stunning stained glass, which was created by Charles Eamer Kempe.
The cathedral is easily accessible and is well-connected to the city center. It’s close to the Free City Bus stops and Wakefield Kirkgate and Westgate Train Stations.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
The Yorkshire Sculpture Park in Wakefield, North Yorkshire, is a stunning landscaped park with over eighty works of art. It has an exciting programme of events and is situated on 500 acres of parkland. It is an award-winning art centre and is home to an extensive collection of contemporary works.
It is free to visit, but you can purchase tickets in advance and purchase them online. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day of the year except 24-25 December. Entry is free for children under the age of eighteen. The park is accessible by car, with parking available on site and in the Visitor Centre.
You can also explore the park’s grounds. The park was once the site of a vast estate owned by a wealthy man. The man rebuilt the mansion and grounds, and the house was visited by Henry VIII in the 16th century. The aristocracy sold the estate in 1947 and it is now in the public domain.
The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a fantastic art destination that offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy major exhibitions and exciting events and explore the park’s permanent works. The park is home to works by artists such as Henry Moore, Phyllida Barlow, Thomas J Price, and Ai Weiwei. The park also offers a summertime program of dynamic events that celebrate human connection and diversity.
Theatre Royal Wakefield
The Theatre Royal Wakefield is a historic theatre in Wakefield, England. Originally called the Theatre Royal and Opera House, it dates back to the 1770s. The current name dates from 1894. The building is now a heritage centre and hosts events such as the annual Wakefield Arts Festival. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of shows, from opera to comedy.
Its Victorian design has been maintained, and it features some of the same facilities as larger theatres. The Theatre Royal Wakefield is staffed entirely by volunteers. It has a smaller budget, so the production costs are lower than those of larger companies. As a result, you will find local talent on stage.
The theatre’s history dates back to 1774. Its current building, which was designed by internationally-renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham, opened in 1894. In addition to showing films, it also hosts concerts, plays, and other entertainment. There’s even a cafe/bar space. The theatre is also home to a number of community groups and other cultural organizations.
The theatre also hosts the Wakefield Youth Music Theatre. They produce an excellent production, complete with lively songs and dazzling costumes. Whether it’s a solo show or a group of characters, this production is a delight to watch.
Wakefield Farmers Market
The Wakefield Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh local fruits, vegetables, and meats. You can even find specialty items such as cheese and pastries. It offers plenty of parking, a good selection of vendors, and cooking demonstrations. Visitors can also purchase local wine, cheese, honey, and maple products.
The Wakefield Farmers Market is open every Wednesday from 2 PM to 6 PM at the Wakefield Park Recreation Center in Annandale. The Market is also a great place to meet people and pass out information about local Congressional candidates. Fairfax Republicans are encouraged to get involved at the market, as well as share their views on current issues.
