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Europe United Kingdom Leeds Do & See Kirkstall Abbey

Overview

Kirkstall Abbey

The guide was updated: 2024-09-16

If you're in the mood for a quick gateway from the city centre, then consider visiting this extremely quiet and impressive attraction, which is just perfect for a picnic on the grass, but that will also satisfy history-lovers. So wander around this ruined monastery and then enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Useful Information

Address: Abbey Road, Kirkstall, Leeds
More Info: Closed on Mondays
Opening hours: 10:00-16:30 (April to September) 10:00-16:00 (October to March)
Website: www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/kirkstallabbey
Phone: +44 113 230 5492
Email: kirkstall.abbey@leeds.gov.uk

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Temple Newsam

Temple Newsam

This majestic historic Tudor-Jacobian mansion includes a large collection of precious paintings. It not only houses landscaped gardens, parklands and summer concerts, but also Europe's largest Rare Breeds Farm, with more than 400 animals.

Leeds Dock

Leeds Dock

Leeds Dock, formerly Clarence Dock, was built in 1843 for ships sailing in the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and represents today a major attraction in the city, counting over 1 million visitors every year. It is a lovely area for a walk and, in addition to the numerous boutiques, restaurants and cafes, it houses the Royal Armouries Museum, one of the most important among the city nuseuns, and also provides an excellent water taxi service, which will offer you a free ride to several sights of the city.

Kirkstall Abbey

Kirkstall Abbey

If you're in the mood for a quick gateway from the city centre, then consider visiting this extremely quiet and impressive attraction, which is just perfect for a picnic on the grass, but that will also satisfy history-lovers. So wander around this ruined monastery and then enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Kirkgate Market

Kirkgate Market

One of the largest indoor markets in Europe, Leeds Kirkgate Market is a paradise for all the foodies who love fresh food and drink, but also for those who love fashion, jewellery and flowers. Here you surely will find some of the most characterful traders in the city, who come from different countries and have worked here for decades. It should certainly be among the top sights of your itinerary.

Leeds Art Gallery

Leeds Art Gallery

Leeds Art Gallery houses an outstanding collection of 20th-century British art, recognised as being of national importance by the government. Do not hesitate to turn to the helpful staff, and do not miss the chance to sit at the Tiled Hall, a unique artistic cafe inside the gallery.

The Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries feature a large collection of military artefacts. The extensive collection offers the visitors the possibility to enjoy a combination of displays, dramatic interpretations, live action events and interactive technology from the Leeds, London and Portsmouth museums.

Roundhay Park

Roundhay Park

Roundhay Park is a big open space with wonderful surroundings and many walking and cycling routes that will keep you busy for a whole day. It covers more than 700 acres of woodland and lakes, where people enjoy watching and feeding the numerous species of birds, such as swans, herons and woodpeckers. Also, this huge natural area is house of the Tropical World, an animal park that includes lots of species, from lemurs to iguanas and armadillos.

Leeds Minster

This large Church of England is an amazing historical sight that one simply should not miss. Its stained-glass windows and architecture are simply gorgeous, as well as the soothing sound of the Sunday bells. Formerly the Leeds Parish Church, it became a minster in 2012 and regularly houses wonderful choir and organ concerts.

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Located in Skipton, outside Leeds, this steam railway provides scenic journeys between Embsay station, built in 1888, and the Bolton Abbey station. Join an unmissable experience which takes you through the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, surrounding the city of Leeds.

Harewood House

Harewood House

A grand 18th century manor house, home to the Queen's cousin, provides a day out for the whole family. There, you can admire an outstanding art collection, walk in the spectacular gardens or go for a relaxing boat ride on the lake.

Leeds Tropical World

Leeds Tropical World

Just outside the city centre, you will find Leeds Tropical World, one of the most popular attractions of the area. This big park features not only one of the largest collections of tropical and exotic plants in the United Kingdom, but also animals such as snakes, crocodiles and lemurs.

Thackray Museum of Medicine

Thackray Museum of Medicine

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of medicine, learn about the history of healthcare, and discover the medical innovations that changed the world at this interactive science museum adjacent to St James's University Hospital.

Park Square

Park Square

This Georgian public square is an oasis of tranquillity right in the heart of the city. It is a perfect place for those who need to get away from the bustle of the city for an hour or two. The park is rather small, but there are benches all around and there is plenty of space on the grass, so many choose this spot for a lunch break.

Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Leeds & Liverpool Canal

This is the perfect place to have a long walk or a relaxing cycle route along a canal, featuring different sections such as the industrial or the countryside ones. There are also cafes and pubs along the way, so enjoy the stroll and some sweet delights or a cold beer.

Nostell Priory & Parkland

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Leeds City Museum

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For a fun and interactive day out for the whole family, Leeds City Museum is a great choice where to discover Egyptian mummies, fossils, or encounter the Leeds tiger. With six galleries of exhibitions, including everything from archaeological finds to artwork and series of activities to engage kids and adults, you will need to have time on your side when entering this beautifully restored building.

Abbey House Museum

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Step back in time and explore the fascinating streets packed with historic artefacts, shops and houses, and get a glimpse of how life was in the 19th century. A fun, family-friendly and interactive museum, Abbey House Museum offers a range of activities, from dressing up to special tours suitable for all the family.

Leeds Town Hall

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This beautiful town hall was built in 1858 on a site in Park Lane and is a great example of Victorian architecture that reflects the wealth and power of that time. If you have a fascination regarding old buildings, then take a tour and explore the hidden secret side to the town hall, including the courtroom and the Victorian prison cells. It is also a place where you can enjoy some of the best live music events in the city, as well as comedy and educational events.

Central Library

Central Library

Be prepared to fall in love with the grand architecture of this library, a real paradise for every book-lover out there. This spot, though, is worth a visit anyway since it's undoubtedly an unmissable Victorian masterpiece.

Tick Tock Unlock

Tick Tock Unlock

You only have one goal when doing this real life escape game, and that is to race against the clock and escape from the room in 60 minutes by solving a series of puzzles, cracking some clues and working together with your team of 3-6 people. Truly a popular game that you can play with your family, friends or schoolmates.

West Indian Carnival

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Saint Anne's Cathedral

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Located in the heart of the city of Leeds, Saint Anne's Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church. Completed in 1904, the building features impressive mosaics and reredos, as well as beautiful altar details and marble sculptures. You will find this peaceful sanctuary close to the city museum and art gallery, surrounded by restaurants and cafes where you can stop after visiting.

Live For Today

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If you are looking for some excitement, then look no further. Live For Today is one of the fastest growing outdoor activity companies in the UK, and offers some thrilling and fun adventures. Everything from quad biking, paintball, archery, laser tag and air rifle shooting can be done here and, with the help of the hand-picked instructions, you will surely enjoy the experience.

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