Description
Explore one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. Set in wonderful parkland along the banks of the River Aire, Kirkstall Abbey boast historic architecture amid a haven of wildlife and greenery. Abbey Cafe serves locally produced sandwiches and cakes, hot and cold drinks, and ice creams. Kirkstall Abbey Visitor Centre tells you more about the lives of the 12th century monks and objects found during excavations throughout the years. Kirkstall Abbey is directly across the road from Abbey House Museum, which is a great opportunity to make a day out for all the family. Family activities and trails are run throughout the year. Annual passes are available, pay once and come back throughout the year.
Service options
On-site services
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Crowd
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Children
Good for kids
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Reviews
5
We had the most amazing wedding experience at this most gorgeous venue. If we could give ten stars or more, we would. Every step of the way, we were looked after by the fabulous Leslie, who ensured everything went spot on. Nothing was too much trouble. And Leslie, you take amazing photos. Thank you so much from both of us. Mark and Jamie x
5
Drove past many time but thought I'd stop and walk round. Cafe moved from museum to the abbey, lots of free parking. Interesting walking amongst the ruins, reading and seeing how it used to look. Water and woods in the grounds added to a nice walk
4
Kirkstall Abbey is a wondeful park with ruins. Runs next to the river and great for a day out. Access to the ruins does cost (PS5.80 for adults) but you can still see the ruins from the park. Lovely cafe which is no more expensive than anywhere else, but does have gluten free options and free water top up too. I'd suggest better signage for some of the walks/trails as we weren't sure which walk we were doing (and probably missed a bit). Nice to pair with a trip to Abbey House Museum for a fuller day out.
5
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 PS5.60 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.
5
Stunning place. Free if you're a student or resident. Well worth the visit. Every gorgeous in the rain. A nice walk around the abbey too. There are other things to see too. But it's a good place to go with kids and all ages. Parking across the road.
5
Spent a couple of hours walking the grounds, lovely Abbey, seating benches are plentiful or bring a blanket, have a picnic, as we saw families doing... The ruins are in great condition for their age, lots to look at, so peaceful.... Dog friendly, keep on lead,