Kirkstall Abbey
Kirkstall Abbey things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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An impressive ruin of a cistrercian monastary that was made defunct during the dissolution of the monastaries by Henry VIII. The monastary was founded in 1152, and considering the locale, it is nice to see very little of the Abbey had been "repurposed" to build other local building, as can be evidenced in other parts of the country. what remains is a fairly intact shell of the main ecclesiastical areas of the abbey, with only the main living & working quarters being in complete ruin. the library and chapterhouse are still there, and you can get a real feel for how much room the monks didn't have in their day to day lives in their devotion. Looking at the map of the area, it is easy to see why the monastary was situated here, and the neccesities of the past make a fantastic backdrop to visiting the place today. there is a wonderful amount of open space, and the river runs close-by. parking is very close (on the other side of the road) there is a visitor centre and a museum nearby too (with toilet facilities!) under current COVID restrictions, there is a sensible 1-way system in place around the main building area, but there is plenty of space and things to do if you visit during a busy time. there are several information boards placed in key areas to explain the different areas of the abbey to help give you a better feel for how the building was used
mike eamesmike eames
00
Kirkstall Abbey is a historic and picturesque site located in Leeds, West Yorkshire. As I entered the grounds of this magnificent abbey, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The abbey, with its towering ruins and peaceful surroundings, offered a glimpse into the past, transporting me to a time long gone. As I explored the abbey, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like for the monks who once called this place home. The abbey was founded in the 12th century and was a thriving community until its dissolution under Henry VIII in the 16th century. Walking through the remnants of the cloisters and chapter house, I could almost hear the soft echoes of prayers and chants that once filled these hallowed halls. One of the highlights of my visit was the abbey's museum, which provided a fascinating insight into the daily lives of the monks who lived here. The lush greenery, the gentle sound of the nearby River Aire, and the sense of solitude all contributed to a feeling of peace and calm. It was a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life, allowing me to reflect and appreciate the beauty of nature and history.
Im PKIm PK
00
This is a very well preserved Abbey. Do not be put off from paying to visit this beautiful historic site. Entry is free for Leeds residents subject to proof of ID. For non Leeds residents, it is £5.60 per adult however your purchased ticket will give you unlimited access for a year. The ticket will be stamped with an expiry date. Walking around the fenced parts of the building is not quite the same as going into the building/grounds. The buildings are well preserved and so are the grounds. You can easily spend over an hour here. You can even have a picnic in the grounds but please take your rubbish home with you! The building is set in a very large public park with river running to the side of it. There’s a cafe and toilet facilities on site. There is free parking to the opposite side of the road. The Abbey is a fair bit away from Leeds city centre if you don’t drive though public transport is easily accessible. It’s the kind of place you can visit different seasons of the year. Do check before you visit as from time to time, events are hosted here.
Legends lLegends l
00
I had the chance to visit Kirkstall Abbey today and explore it from the inside, and it was an amazing experience! The abbey is beautifully preserved, with impressive Gothic ruins that offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval monastic life. Walking through the peaceful grounds, I appreciated the historical significance of the place. However, I feel that the current text information and graphic displays could be improved. More detailed graphics or updated displays would really help bring the history to life. At the moment, the design on the boards feels a bit outdated, and a refreshed, more modern approach would definitely uplift the overall experience, especially considering there’s an entrance fee. Despite this, it’s a beautiful site and well worth visiting. Perfect for history lovers and those who enjoy exploring atmospheric ruins in a tranquil setting. A must-see in Leeds!
Axtelera RayAxtelera Ray
00
Perfect for a day out that the whole family can enjoy. Plus it's free so no excuse for a cultural day out on the weekend or during school holidays. Four times a year they hold a market that has stalls selling local produce and street food. Tasty and reasonably priced. A pop up bar was also available. Free twice daily tours. One in the morning and one in the afternoon, usually 11.30 am and 2 pm. Good for adults to walk around the Abbey and adjacent ruins, there are plenty of plaques explaining the different areas and usage of the Abbey and ruins. Children free to run around and play amongst the ruins. Gift shop on site. Child play area and clean toilets. If you just want to enjoy the scenery and setting take a picnic and sit in the park area surrounding the Abbey and chill by the river Aire that runs along side the Abbey grounds.
Sarah ESarah E
00
A very pleasant day out for the family. The Abbey itself is splendid and quite spectacular, all be it a well preserved ruin. Its large and maintained to a large degree, hence the entrance fee, but a shame that it isn't free as the atmosphere inside is great for all to experience. The surrounding area is lovely for walks by the river and good for kids to run around. There is a busy main road that runs adjacent to the Abbey so be aware if with small children. The Abbey is opposite the Abbey museum which is also worth a visit, for a small fee. Car parking is available free opposite the Abbey museum next to kids playground, can get busy in the summer. Both the Abbey and the Abbey museum have gift shops and there's a cafe at the museum. Take a look well worth a visit.
MarkMark
00
Nearby Attractions Of Kirkstall Abbey
Kirkstall Bridge Shopping Park
Arcade Club Leeds
Abbey House Museum
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Nearby Restaurants Of Kirkstall Abbey
Kirkstall Bridge Inn
West End House
Mog's Cafe
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Kirkstall Fisheries
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Costa Coffee
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH, United Kingdom
Map
Phone
+44 113 378 4079
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Website
leeds.gov.uk
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Reviews
Overview
4.6
(2.3K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
Description
Kirkstall Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery in Kirkstall, north-west of Leeds city centre in West Yorkshire, England. It is set in a public park on the north bank of the River Aire. It was founded c. 1152. It was disestablished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII.
attractions: Kirkstall Bridge Shopping Park, Arcade Club Leeds, Abbey House Museum, restaurants: Kirkstall Bridge Inn, West End House, Mog's Cafe, La Grande, Pizza Connection leeds, Kirkstall Fisheries, DINNER BOX Chinese And Cantonese Takeaway, Costa Coffee, Morris Pizza, Leeds, Starbucks Coffee
