Living in Kirkstall Area Guide

Kirkstall is one of the suburbs of Leeds, around 2 miles from the city centre, and is filled with Victorian houses that are perfect for affordable shared accommodation for students.

Things To Do in Kirkstall

Kirkstall is home to the famous ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, which is the areas most popular attraction. The Abbey is surrounded by a park which holds open-air theatre shows and concerts throughout the Summer.

Near the Abbey, is the 19th century Kirkstall House Museum. With its collection of interactive exhibitions, and Victorian streets, it provides for an interesting visit for everyone. The ideal place to visit for students living in the area.

Places to Shop

If you're looking for a shopping day in Kirkstall, the area isn't short of places to shop:

Kirkstall Bridge Shopping Park - With a Morrisons, Iceland Food Warehouse, and M&S Foodhall for all your grocery needs, The Works for your stationery needs, and many other shops and places to eat, this shopping park should have everything you need all in one place.

The Bookshop Kirkstall - If you're an avid reader, or it's a requirement for your Uni studies, this independent bookshop sells a wide range of books from classes to modern titles. The shop also hosts book readings from local authors, which can be a good excuse for an evening out to meet like-minded people.

Leeds city centre is also only a 20 minute bus ride, or a 15 minute drive, if you want to have a day of serious shopping.

Where to Eat in Kirkstall

Whether you're looking for a quick pink after a day at Uni, a pub quiz for your and your mates, or a nice meal before a night out, Kirkstall has got you covered!

Kirkstall Bridge Inn - A traditional British pub, serving real ale, traditional pub food, and hosting a pub quiz each Wednesday; it's the ideal spot for you and your Uni friends to grab a drink, some pub food, and have a weekly evening out doing a fun pub quiz.

There are also a number of other pubs, depending on whereabouts in Kirkstall you're living: West End House, Aire of the Dog, and the Cardigan Arms.

If you're looking to grab a quick lunch or a place to set up your laptop and do some Uni work, whilst being supplied with good coffee, why not try Fat Chops Cafe, situated on Kirkstall Road.

When you're having a night out with friends, why not make a full night of it and fill yourself up on Italian food at GalleryFortyOne, an authentic Italian restaurant serving traditional pizza and pasta dishes. The restaurant also offers an early bird menu; perfect for meals out on a student budget.

Keeping Fit in Kirkstall

If you're a gym-goer or are keen on keeping your fitness up whilst living in the area, there is a PureGym situated at the Kirkstall Bridge Shopping Park, which is a 24 hour gym and membership starts from an affordable £14.99 per month.

The Milford Sports Club is perfect for those who like to go to a yoga or a Zumba class, is home to the amateur rugby league, Milford Marlins, and more. The club is very conveniently located, so is easily accessible wherever you're living in Kirkstall, and membership prices are low.

For swimming, badminton, indoor football, netball, squash, table tennis, and more, Kirkstall Leisure Centre has something for everyone. You can become a member and have access to the gym facilities and pools, or book individual classes and activities online.

Transport in Kirkstall

Like with all of the suburbs of Leeds, Kirkstall has excellent transport to and from the area. It's a 25 minute walk or 13 minute bus ride into Headingley, and a 20 minute bus ride into Hyde Park, with buses running every 10 minutes.

It is also only a short distance into Leeds city centre, with only a 15 minute bus ride and a bus running to and from the area every 5 minutes. Or, if you're a bit more active, it's just a 55 minute walk into the centre.

After getting off the bus in Leeds city centre, it is just a 5 minute walk to the University campus.

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