Kirkstall Abbey

Not our usual type of explore this one but as we where passing Jaff Fox and myself thought we would have a look around as it looked rather cool.

One of Britain's best preserved abbeys, Kirkstall Abbey was founded in 1152 by a party of Cistercian monks from Fountains Abbey and was closed down in November 1539 in the Dissolution of religious houses ordered by Henry VIII. The monks were pensioned-off, the roofs stripped of lead and some buildings converted for agricultural use. Many famous artists such as JMW Turner, Thomas Girtin and Moses Griffith came to paint Kirkstall Abbey's picturesque ruins. Today large parts of the Abbey can still be seen and explored free of charge.

Kirkstall Abbey is one of the most important buildings historically in Leeds. Built between 1152 and 1182 on the northern bank of the River Aire, the Abbey was home to a community of Cistercian monks and lay brothers. 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.

Was in Kirkstall Abbey yesterday (April 2nd). It is a fascinating place and great for photo's. Only problem I had was man with a walkie talkie demanding payment as I was in the restricted area taking pictures. Pointed to him that the gates etc were open and loads of people were wandering in and out and picnicing etc and that no signs up re photo's

Fabulous place. I don't blame you for taking time to go and see it! Excellent pics.

That 2nd pic is fantastic. I love places like this.

This brings back memories. Used to go wandering around there years ago, love the place. You've got some great shots there. I agree with Spacepunk, i like pic 2 too. Plus 6, 7, 8 and 9, they're all great.

Cheers,

Sal

really like the photos, got some great shots there.

can you imagine how impressive that huge stained glass window would have been back in the day, it's a real shame it wasn't looked after

one of our standard sunday trips when i was a kid.

The place doesn't seem to have changed that much.

I guess ecclesastical buildings get far more protection than industrial ones.

Fantastic. I'd love to take a slow walk around this place one afternoon with a camera. I notice you also mention Fountains Abbey Havoc, another derelict abbey which is well worth a look (if you're ever in North Yorkshire).

http://www.fountainsabbey.org.uk/

b

and if you're going to do Fountains Abbey you might as well go and see Rievaulx Abbey and Mount Grace Priory too

Nice. Roche Abbey on the outskirts of Maltby (South Yorks) is also worth a look if you're in the area. (Although not at night as the car park is a dogging venue. Erm, I heard.)

http://www.flashearth.com/?lat=53.402363&lon=-1.183368&z=18.6&r=0&src=msl