There have been mixed reactions across Leeds to the news Kirkstall Abbey is going to charge people from outside of the city for visits.
The site is one of the most popular sites for tourists in Leeds and with people visiting from across the country every day. Kirkstall Abbey will introduce the charges from this week and they consist of a £5 for visitors from outside of the city while children will cost £2.50 and children under the age of five will be allowed in for free.
This charge has proved controversial already with some in Leeds outraged by the new charges on accessing the 870-year-old former monastery.
Read More: Leeds high street full of shops and market stalls wins big on Postcode Lottery
Lynne Green said with the rising cost of living, the introduction of the charge was bad timing. She said: “Is it really a good time to introduce a fee? Everyone is struggling enough right now with the high cost of living. We'll be charged for visiting the local park next.”
Kelvin Wakefield was also concerned about the potential for the council charging Leeds residents at a later date. He said: “Thin end of the wedge. That’s how it starts. First you charge non residents but it won’t stop there. Pretty soon, you‘ll charge everyone.”
Others from across the country were upset by the announcement as well. Darryl Atherton said: “We were coming over from Wigan to visit this month, we'll go somewhere else instead.”
Samantha Briggs said the current system was unfair as people from nearby areas, who live outside of Leeds, will now have to pay while people from Leeds will not. She said: “It should either be open for all to enjoy free or charge or everyone charged no matter where they come from.
“Bad move I’m afraid, there’s 6 of us in our family & we come to visit from Halifax, not anymore.”
Many other people, however, thought the plans were a good idea. Kevin Mockett said: “£5 per adult for one year’s unlimited access; £2.50 for a child for the same period. Not unreasonable at all. Leeds residents do pay, via Council Tax…”
Faith Bush shared similar sentiments and said: “I am Baildon area [sic] and travel by bus with my family I don't see the problem in paying a donation or something not no big but I think everyone should pay it sorry Leeds postcode.”
The Abbey has confirmed walking around the grounds will remain free and so will visiting the markets. If you want to see the full set of rules check out the announcement on the Abbey’s website here.
Read More:
