Emily Shaw went along to Kirkstall Festival on the hottest day of the year …
Kirkstall Abbey’s annual Kirkstall Festival was this Saturday the 13th of July. Despite the fact that this was one of the hottest days of the year so far, thousands still ventured out into the soaring temperatures.
Kirkstall Festival is an event that I have been to for years, and always one that I enjoy, and this year was no exception. The stalls were an eclectic mix, with everything from charity stalls to cake stalls, and there was definitely something for everyone to enjoy. There were many jewellery, clothing and bag stalls for those like me who were enjoying the sun and hunting out a bargain, but the huge range of food and drink available was also brilliant. My favourite shaved ice stall from last year had returned and was a welcome sight on the hot day, and there were plenty of places at which to eat – the Indian food from ‘Bombay Bites’ that I chose for lunch was especially tasty.
The setting for the event – Kirkstall Abbey – is stunning on an average day, but it looked glorious in the sun, with two different bands/orchestras within the shaded ruins providing great entertainment. As well as this, there were two more stages for bands – one a youth stage where every genre from blues to rock were performed – with seats set in front of the stages for those who wanted to stay and watch. Performers could be stumbled upon at every corner, and we even found some ukulele playing 1940’s style singers in the tea tent.
The festival really is fun for all family – for the kids, trampoline with bungee cords attached , a carousel and pony rides, and for the adults…a Pimm’s stall! Kirkstall festival really does have everything (even a fairground!) and I would highly recommend getting down there next year!
The festival was greatly organised, as always, I had a brilliant time and as always it was free entry, with funds being raised by programmes sold at £2.00.To find out more about the festival, head to www.kirkstall-festival.org.uk . The festival may be over for another year, but there are regular events at Kirkstall Abbey, and it is a wonderful place to visit even without an event. To find out more about the Abbey and other events go to www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/Kirkstall-Abbey
