Katherine Ryan headlines open-air all-dayer at Leeds landmark

A new comedy festival is to be held in the grounds of a ruined 12th Century monastary.

Kirkstall Abbey, on the outskirts of Leeds, will host the likes of Katherine Ryan, Ross Noble and Reginald D. Hunter over the one-day event.

Up to 4,500 will attend the open-air festival – the first event of its kind to be held in Leeds – on July 28.

The monument is a ruined Cistercian monastery, founded around 1152, but closed during Henry VIII’s dissolution, and its picturesque ruins have been captured in artwork by the likes of JMW. Turner.

Also playing the Kirkstall Abbey Comedy Festival are Maisie Adam, Clinton Baptiste, Mike Wozniak, Ivo Graham, Jeff Innocent, Stephen Bailey and Jason Cook, who will host the day.

 Andy Smith, director of promoters Futuresound Group said: ‘We are always looking for ways to bring new and exciting events to Leeds… With some of the biggest names in comedy on board, this is shaping up to be a brilliant day with some household names, exciting new voices and lots more.'

Tickets go on general sale from Wednesday here

Published: 26 Feb 2024