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.
One of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country, founded over 800 years ago.
Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey and learn all about its history in the Visitor Centre. Enjoy wandering through the park and woodlands, and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire.
We have a range of displays and events running throughout the year.
Monday:
closed
Tuesday – Sunday:
10am – 4pm
Last entry 3.30pm
Bank holidays:
10am – 4pm
The Abbey & Visitor Centre
Kirkstall Abbey is a marvel to behold with its dramatic architecture and magnificent ruins. The abbey is one of the most complete Cistercian monasteries in Britain.
As a Grade I listed building and Scheduled Ancient Monument it is a haven for historians, artists and visitors to Leeds. Step back in time, learn about life as a monk and explore the history of the abbey at our interactive Visitor Centre.
The Abbey Park
The park at Kirkstall Abbey is a great space to play, enjoy a picnic and explore all year round.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds or along the river and keep an eye out for a wide variety of events being held throughout the year. There is a large playground for children to let off steam.
Kirkstall Abbey Market
Join us at our fantastic outdoor market, set within the abbey grounds. It features unique makers and producers from Leeds and the surrounding areas.
Running on the last weekend from March until November, the market includes over 40 stalls with hand-made crafts and local produce from across Yorkshire. Enjoy browsing in a stunning setting, pick up a gift, sample something delicious and support local businesses.
Admission to Kirkstall Abbey is free. Please note that our toilets are being cleaned regularly to ensure the safety and protection of everyone and they will be closed whilst cleaning takes place. We support test & trace at Kirkstall Abbey and will ask for your details for this purpose when visiting the shop. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Facilities
Parking
A large free car park is situated next to Abbey House Museum on Abbey Walk. This includes disabled parking. There is an additional disabled access parking space immediately outside the museum entrance.
Accessibility
We aim to provide a friendly, accessible environment for all our visitors and the widest possible access to our buildings, exhibitions and collections.
Situated in Leeds, Kirkstall Abbey is approximately 3 miles from the city centre. Located off Abbey Road (Kirkstall Road), the entrance is via a well maintained and fairly level pedestrian walkway.
The main entrance to the visitor centre has level access. The entrance is automatic, opening outwards with a clear opening space.
Disabled parking
There are four spaces in the Vesper Lane car park located across Kirkstall Road on Abbey Walk. Access from the car park to the abbey is down a short but steep hill to Kirkstall Road and over a pedestrian crossing. There is ramped access through the gardens.
Accessible toilets
There are accessible toilets in the visitor centre. Facilities in the accessible toilets include an emergency alarm, a fire alarm with a flashing light and a baby change unit. This toilet is not RADAR key operated.
We do not currently have a Changing Places facility. The nearest one is located 1.5 miles away at the HEART Centre (Headingley Enterprise and Arts Centre) Bennett Road, LS6 3HN.
Baby change
Baby change facilities are available in the accessible toilet in the visitor centre.
Blind and partially sighted visitors
The grounds around Kirkstall Abbey are well used by dog walkers. Guide and assistance dogs are welcome in the abbey grounds and dog bowls are available at the front entrance of the visitor centre.
Visitors with physical disabilities and wheelchair users
A wheelchair is available from the visitor centre to borrow on your visit. Unfortunately we cannot provide assistance around the abbey for wheelchair users.
Kirkstall Abbey, including the visitor centre is all located at ground level. The visitor centre is fully accessible and so are most of the grounds. Please note that Kirkstall Abbey is a heritage site and some areas of the grounds are cobbled and/or uneven.
Seating is available in the visitor centre and around the grounds.
Hearing impaired and deaf visitors
An induction loop is in place at the desk in the visitor centre.
Access provision for groups
Tailored handling sessions or touch tours on a group-specific interest area for groups can be organised.
VAQAS
Kirkstall Abbey is a member of the Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme (VAQAS). The VAQAS is a scheme which ensures high quality experiences at tourist attractions, including a commitment to respect the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 by making reasonable adjustments to improve service for disabled people.
