Kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey is located in the Kirkstall area of Leeds, West Yorkshire. It is situated over the road from the excellent Abbey House Museum which is also worth a visit. The museum was once the gatehouse of the ruined 12th-century abbey.

What can you do at Kirkstall Abbey?

Kirkstall Abbey is currently free, to visit. There is some debate about whether the council should charge an admission fee or not. Around the abbey, there is some parkland that you can also explore. There is a children’s playground next to the museum’s car park and a tennis court.

Monks first began using the abbey in 1152. They flourished there until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539. Today it is one of the country’s most well-preserved monasteries. Although it only takes around 20-30 minutes to explore it is still a really beautiful place to visit. The abbey still has some pretty high walls and columns plus there are a number of interesting information boards around the site.

Further Information Kirkstall Abbey

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe serving limited hot and cold food and drinks.

What are the main things to do?

Ruined abbey from the 12th century with some impressively tall walls and columns. There are toilets and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

The abbey is currently free to visit

Is there parking?

There is free parking near the museum.

When are they open?

Kirkstall Abbey is open from Tuesday until Sunday almost all year round. For up-to-date opening times please visit their website.

Dog friendly?

Only assistance dogs are permitted in the abbey grounds.

Are they accessible?

Please note that Kirkstall Abbey is a heritage site and some areas of the grounds are cobbled and/or uneven.