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Kirkstall Abbey

Booking Kirkstall Abbey

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Kirkstall Abbey is a Grade I listed ruined Cistercian monastery founded in 1152 north‑west of Leeds city centre, set within serene parkland beside the River Aire.

Times

Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Sunday:
10am – 4.30pm (Apr – Sept)
10am – 4pm (Oct – Mar)
Last entry 30 mins before closing

Attraction Duration

1 hour

Age Range

Recommended for adults

Attraction Overview

Kirkstall Abbey was established in 1152 by Cistercian monks from Fountains Abbey and remained an active monastic centre until its dissolution in 1538 under Henry VIII. The abbey’s substantial remains include a nave, transepts, chapter house, cloister, refectory, abbot’s lodgings, and lay brothers’ dormitory, all built predominantly from local Millstone Grit.

Today, the site is owned by Leeds Museums & Galleries and features a newly renovated visitor centre with engaging interactive exhibits about monastic life, plus access to expansive parkland featuring lawns, sports pitches, play areas, and the Abbey House Museum housed in the former gatehouse across the road. The ruins and grounds have long inspired artists and visitors alike, and the site hosts occasional cultural events, markets, and trails throughout the year.

Be sure to explore...

  • The atmospheric nave, cloisters, chapter house and abbot’s lodgings - the layout offers a tangible sense of monastic life.
  • All of the interactive displays at the visitor centre to learn about Cistercian monastic routines and architecture.
  • The Abbey House Museum across Abbey Road for Victorian-era shops and period exhibits in the original gatehouse.
  • Weekend markets and art trails often hosted on-site between March and November.

How to get here

Head northwest from Leeds city centre. By car, follow the A65 (Kirkstall Road) for about 3 miles; free parking is available on-site. By bus, take one of several services from Leeds city centre—routes 33, 34, or 757 stop near the abbey. The nearest train station is Headingley, about a 20-minute walk away. The postcode for sat navs is LS5 3EH.

Get here by Public Transport

The 33 and 34 First Bus from Leeds, Guiseley and Otley provide regular services to Kirkstall Abbey