Pictures of Kirkstall Abbey
‘Kirkstall Abbey Leeds’
Only a couple of miles from the centre of Leeds is Kirkstall abbey. Largely a ruin now it was completed between 1152 and 1182, although there has recently been some restoration work to reroof part of the building. Kirkstall Abbey still stands substantially to its full height, its massive structure presenting a unique example of early Cistercian architecture.
‘Sited on the banks of the River Aire’
Although its community was disbanded in 1539, it has continued to attract the attention of increasing numbers of visitors, for no other building so completely illustrates this early period of English monastic life.
‘Still one of the best preserved Abbeys in the country’
Kirkstall Abbey is one of the most historically important buildings in Leeds.Built of the bank of the River Aire, the Abbey was home to a community of Cistercian monks and lay brothers.
‘Inside the courtyard of the Abbey’
After its dissolution in 1539 the abbey’s windows, roofs and much of the stonework were steadily removed for use in local building projects and this helps explain its current partially-ruined appearance. Nevertheless, Kirkstall is still preferred by many historians to other Cistercian abbeys around the country.
‘The annual gala’
Every July there is a gala held at the abbey, great fun for the kids, even if it was a little strange that they set off fireworks during the day.
‘The abbey visitor centre’
Tags: Kirstall Abbey, travel and places, Leeds, England