Abbey House Museum plans outline new visitor experience

November 5, 2026 Off By

Proposals would reshape the Kirkstall museum as it approaches its centenary in 2027.

Concept plans for Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall would create a more interactive, family-focused visitor experience exploring Leeds’s past, present and future. The proposals are at an exploratory stage and further development work would depend on securing external funding.

The Grade II listed building’s traditional streets could be updated to make them more immersive, with hands-on activities and features designed to reveal aspects of the city’s history. The plans also propose flexible display spaces, allowing exhibitions to change over time.

The museum’s collections, including material relating to toys and games, archaeology and social history, would inform the proposed displays. The concept also highlights the site’s own history: the building was originally the gatehouse of Kirkstall Abbey and has had several later uses, including as a farmhouse and a home for the owners of Kirkstall Forge.

Plans follow decision to keep museum open

Abbey House Museum was put forward for possible closure in 2024 as Leeds City Council considered measures to address budget pressures. Following a public appeal, the council agreed to keep it open and said it would take steps to improve the museum’s long-term viability.

The current proposals were developed after consultation and research involving museum staff, local history groups and families. Leeds-based architecture firm Bauman Lyons and Halifax exhibition design consultancy Creative Core were appointed following an open tender to work on this exploratory phase.

Further discussions with staff, stakeholders and the community are planned. The council intends to submit a development application for external funding to support further work. No final design or funding decision is set out in the proposals.