About the Building
One of the finest examples of an early Cistercian abbey in the country. Over 800 years old, it underwent many changes during the later Middle Ages but after the Dissolution of the Monasteries it was never refounded.
In the late 1700s it became celebrated by Romantic artists. During the Industrial Revolution Colonel North, a Leeds industrialist, bought it and saved it from being developed. He later presented it to the City of Leeds and its setting became a public park.
Location
Situated 3 miles from Leeds centre on the A65, with good bus and road links. The proximity of Abbey House gives opportunities for a joint visit.
Did you know?
We have a reconstructed reredorter (lay brothers’ toilet complex) housing a new Visitor Centre, new education facilities and interpretation displays both inside and outside the Abbey.
Treasures
The Medieval building and site of the Abbey complex itself!