Kirkstall Abbey

The park surrounding Kirkstall Abbey has smooth tarmac paths and no steps, with small, shallow hills dotted around the area. The lawns are well kept and can be crossed in a wheelchair, although it is a bit bumpy. There is a narrow path alongside the river, away from the main road, but this is not smooth and can be difficult to move along in certain areas. The abbey itself is surrounded by a fence, and can be accessed via a gate near the visitors centre. Entry into the central part is level, and the rooms on the left can be accessed via ramps. There are a few other, smaller rooms that have steps to get to them, but the gardens surrounding the back of the abbey do have a level path for wheelchair access. On Sundays, only the central area is open for viewing. On the other side of the road, which is accessed by a crossing with traffic lights, is the Abbey House Museum, which is also accessible. The entrance is automatic, and the till where tickets are purchased is easily reached from a wheelchair. Level access is provided by the members of staff on duty, who are friendly and prompt to respond. The ground floor is a mock-Victorian street, with the cobbles smoothed out for easier wheelchair access. Some of the shops, such as the iron-mongers and the public house, are wheelchair accessible and can be entered. There is a lift to the second floor, which is a conventional museum with plenty of space to manoeuvre and is fully wheelchair accessible. The café is also fully accessible, although there is a step down to the outdoor eating area, so wheelchair users must leave via the main exit, go around to this eating area, and up the ramp onto the patio. The garden surrounding the museum is fully accessible, albeit via steep and narrow paths in places.