Venue 2 – Kirkstall Abbey

Venue type

Heritage – twelfth century Abbey ruins.

Approach

• There are footpaths throughout the park that are wide enough for wheelchairs.
• These footpaths consist of tarmac and have even surfaces.
• There is step-free access throughout the majority of Kirkstall Abbey.

Entrance

• Entry into the Abbey grounds is via the café and shop.
  • The café and shop are step-free.
  • This entrance is automatic, opening outwards, with a doorway 157 cm wide when both doors are open.
  • The café and shop have wooden floors.
  • Two additional doors exit into the Abbey grounds.
  • This doorway is also 157 cm wide when both doors are open.
• There is an alternative entrance via the large metal gates (shown below).
  • The gates will be open.
  • There is an archway in the wall of the ruin that leads into the Cloister courtyard.

Inside the Abbey

• The outdoor areas of the Abbey are a mix of tarmac, stone paving, cobbles, grass, and gravel.
• As Kirkstall Abbey is a heritage site, some areas of the grounds are uneven and there are some open drains.
• Take care and keep children under close supervision.
• A wheelchair can be borrowed from the shop – call 0113 378 4079 or email kirkstall.abbey@leeds.gov.uk in advance to check availability.
• Seating is available in the café and around the grounds.

• Both assistance dogs and pet dogs are welcome in the Abbey grounds but must be kept on a lead.
• Dog bowls are available at the front entrance of the café.
• Dogs are allowed in the café, but only assistance dogs are permitted in the Rose Room.
• There are bins available for disposing of dog waste.

• Toilets are located in the shop.
• There are separate male and female toilets.
• A separate gender-inclusive accessible toilet is also available, facilities include:
  • handrails on both sides
  • an emergency alarm
  • a fire alarm with a flashing light
  • baby changing facilities
• There is room for a wheelchair to manoeuvre, and space for an assistant.
• This toilet is not RADAR key operated.

• There is a café at Kirkstall Abbey, located in the visitor centre next to the shop.
• The menu includes sandwiches, hot meals, ice cream, and a variety of baked goods.
• Vegan and gluten-free options are available.
• Hot and cold drinks are served, and milk alternatives are available.
• Counter service, but table service can be requested.
• High chairs are available.
• Kirkstall Abbey is a breastfeeding-friendly space.