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Kirkstall Abbey claps back at review that complains it has “no roof”
“Having visited Westminster Abbey in London, I found this one a severe disappointment. Maybe I'll return another time and hope they've finished it” said the anonymous review.
A tourist in Leeds has had a bit of a shock this week after visiting Kirkstall Abbey to discover it has no roof. Completely outrageous behaviour, we're sure you'll agree, from a historic monastery that was destroyed during the reign of Henry VIII.
Writing under the moniker of Tripod, the anonymous tourist complains that having visited Westminster Abbey in London, they found Kirkstall a "disappointment" and that they would return "another time and hope they've finished it.”
They also shared their dismay that it had been left open to the elements for years - adding it was unfit for any monk to live, even one with "Bear Grylls-style survival skills."
Then they finished by throwing shade at Leeds City Council for slacking on the upkeep. Because clearly, that is the problem here.
An amused team at the Abey replied, delivering an impromptu history lesson to reviewer 'Tripod'.
Elaine F, General Manager at Kirkstall Abbey, wrote: “You are indeed correct when you say it is a ruin. It is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
“The abbey was begun in 1152 and by 1182 the greatest of the buildings still standing today had been built, such as the church and chapterhouse.
“In 1534, Parliament passed the Act of Supremacy, making King Henry VIII Head of the Church of England.
“Henry chose to abolish all religious houses in England because of their connection to the Catholic Church and their allegiance to the Pope. These events later became known as the ‘Dissolution of the Monasteries’.
“On 22 November 1539 the king’s agents entered the abbey’s chapterhouse, where, in the presence of all the monks, Abbot John Ripley signed the deed of surrender.138329043104
“With the monks gone the abbey grounds were sold and many of the stones used to build the abbey were recycled for other local building projects.
“We may not have a roof but we think we're the loveliest abbey ruins around! Best wishes from the team at Kirkstall Abbey..”
Feature image - Tim Green
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Award-wining Leeds sandwich shop Silver’s Deli to open neighbourhood bakehouse
Silver's Deli is opening up a sister shop, and this time it's about everything baked.
We all know and love Silver's Deli for their stacked subs and breakfast sandwiches that could cure any hangover no matter how severe.
They're so good, that they even bagged the coveted Uber Eats Restaurant of the Year Award last year.
And rightly so, because Silver's is absolutely class.
And it seems there's just no stopping Silver's, as they've just announced that they'll be opening a sister shop named Silver's Bakehouse serving up everything, yep you guessed it, baked.
It'll also be in Farsley where the original Silver's is, and they're labelling the new venture as 'your neighbourhood bake shop'.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Silver's Deli said: "Well it’s happening. I said no more shops, but it’s kinda necessary, and I just love all things baked.
"There’s waaaaaaaaay too many details to share on this right now, but go give our sister shop @silvers_bakehouse a new follow and hold on tight. This is gonna be fun as fuck."
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Customers can expect a wider range of Silver's goodies that they're unable to whip up in the current space. From soft amaretti biscuits and their famous cookies to sausage rolls and brownies that the team have been working on for 12 months.
We're in no doubt that this venture is going to be absolutely brilliant, and you best believe we'll be first in line to try one of those brownies.
Silver's Bakehouse will be located on Town Street in Farsley and is expected to open this May.
Behind the doors of a former church that has been renovated into a beautiful home in North Yorkshire
Clementine Hall
Nestled in the North Yorkshire countryside, Fell View Chapel dates all the way back to 1846.
Ever wanted to live in an abandoned church? Well, now's your chance.
This former Methodist Church dates all the way back to 1846 and has all the original features to match.
If you can look past the possible ghosts that may be lurking, this one-of-a-kind property can be yours for just £450,000.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
Step through the original church door and you'll be met by a striking open-plan living space with a fully functioning log burner to keep you warm through the winter months, complete with a beautiful contemporary kitchen which has been renovated to the highest spec.
The floating first floor features a glass landing that overlooks the ground floor below, and of course there's stunning stained glass windows throughout the property.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
This architectural conversion has taken five years to complete and there's been no expense spared, the pulpit and pews have even been kept to really keep that churchy vibe.
Here's what the listing says: "Welcome to The Old Methodist Church, originally built in 1846 and beautifully transformed over the past five years into a truly exceptional home.
"This remarkable conversion seamlessly blends contemporary living with the building’s historic charm, creating a residence that is both striking and deeply characterful.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
"Every detail has been tastefully and skilfully executed, carefully preserving original features while introducing modern design and comfort. The stained glass windows, original pulpit and pews remain as stunning focal points — a real marvel and a tribute to the building’s heritage."
Georgina Pellant -
15th July 2021 
