Kirkstall Abbey

Suitable for 0-6 months and above


Open today from 1000 until 1630

Visit website

Set on the outskirts of Leeds, Kirkstall Abbey is one of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country. Founded over 860 years ago, the Grade I listed monument is a marvel to behold and completely free to explore.

Wander the ruins, discover over 800 years of history and find out how the monks of the abbey lived. A haven for history lovers and artists alike, the majestic abbey’s dramatic architecture and hidden nooks make it a fantastic place to roam. Stop by the visitor centre to find out more about the artefacts excavated from the abbey.

Enjoy wandering the parkland, set on the banks of the River Aire and look out for wildlife on your walk. Bring a picnic along in the summer months, play in the park and let off steam in the playground.

The abbey is also the setting of our picturesque monthly deli markets which run from March – November. It features unique makers and producers from Leeds and the surrounding areas.

Haunted Halloween Hunt 22nd- 30th Oct

Head to Kirkstall Abbey this October half term for a Haunted Halloween Hunt in a spectacularly spooky setting!

The family trail will take you around the ruined medieval abbey and along the way you will find plenty of creepy creatures, spooky statues and peculiar props.

Not too spooky so suitable for all the family!

 

If it is your first visit, please remember to bring your ID as proof of Leeds residency to get a free annual pass to the abbey.

For non-Leeds residents there is a small one-off annual charge to visit the ruins, which gives you a pass to visit for 12 months.

Kirkstall Abbey Markets will also be taking place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 October so it may be busier over the weekend. Come along to enjoy food & drink from local producers and street food vans, plus have a wander of the stalls to pick up something from a local maker.

Kirkstall Abbey is a little gem of a location just outside the centre of Leeds. Parking is free where there is a great kids park suitable for toddlers and small kids along with baby swings. A short walk down the hill and across the road takes you to Kirkstall Abbey - a beautiful Abbey which is free to access. You can get in via the visitors centre and here they will tell you if there are any competitions or trails running (again all free). The centre of the Abbey has a little mud kitchen/messy play area set up along with a large patch of grass with picnic benches which is a perfect area for kids to run about.

Recommended by Jen Cooper - Mon Sep 16 2019

Activity Type

  • Museums and cultural activities
  • Parks, walks and outdoor fun
  • Outdoor activities
  • Indoor activities
  • Suitable for Additional Needs

Directions

Address: Abbey Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom, LS5 3EH

Get in touch

Telephone: 0113 378 4079

Website: https://kirkstallabbey.leeds.gov.uk

Opening Hours

  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 1000 - 1630
  • Wednesday 1000 - 1630
  • Thursday 1000 - 1630
  • Friday 1000 - 1630
  • Saturday 1000 - 1630
  • Sunday 1000 - 1630

Price

Facilities

  • Double pram friendly
  • Suitable for twins/multiples
  • Pram/Wheelchair accessible
  • Baby changing available

Reviews

There are 1 reviews for "Kirkstall Abbey"

Recommended by Jen Cooper on Mon Sep 16 2019

Kirkstall Abbey is a little gem of a location just outside the centre of Leeds. Parking is free where there is a great kids park suitable for toddlers and small kids along with baby swings. A short walk down the hill and across the road takes you to Kirkstall Abbey - a beautiful Abbey which is free to access. You can get in via the visitors centre and here they will tell you if there are any competitions or trails running (again all free). The centre of the Abbey has a little mud kitchen/messy play area set up along with a large patch of grass with picnic benches which is a perfect area for kids to run about.

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