There is surely no more interesting day out in Leeds than a visit to the Thackray Museum, which tells the story of medical advances through the ages. A recreated Victorian street, complete with sights, sounds and smells, highlights the lives, ailments and treatment of a bygone era in vivid clarity, and visitors can also step inside the human body in an interactive gallery. The museum was the vision of Paul Thackray, a former director of a medical supplies company, and since its opening in 1997 has become one of Britain's best museums.

Address: Beckett Street, Leeds West

Website: www.thackraymuseum.org

Telephone: (0)113 244 4343

Transport: Bus 11 from Vicar Lane travels to St James’s Hospital, which is alongside the museum. Bus 41 and 50 from The Headrow and the St Peter’s Street coach station also serve the museum

Opening times: Daily 10am-5pm. Last entry 3pm. Closed 24-26th December and 31st December to 1st January

Admission: £7 (adults), £5 (children 5-16); other concessions available