The filming was carried out for the latest episode of our exclusive web-tv series Haunted Leeds which is live on the YEP website from today.

The impressive structure, which dates back to 1152, is thought to be one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Britain. It has also been the focus of a number of ghost sightings, with consistent reports of a hooded figure, thought to be a monk, walking the grounds.

To watch the episode, click here.

"It was a real privilege to be part of the first film crew allowed into Kirkstall Abbey after dark to film a ghost hunt," said Haunted Leeds presenter and YEP feature writer Grant Woodward. "It's such an impressive building and was always high on our filming wishlist, but we didn't think we'd be able to get in there."

As the episode reveals, the building is steeped in history and, according to TV medium Barrie John, the monks who lived there were not always on their best behaviour.

"There was a lot that happened on the night that really makes you stop and think," added Grant.

"Barrie has done a lot of these investigations, and he picked up straight away on the spirit of a woman who had been sexually attacked by a monk in the grounds."

Spookier still, Grant's co-presenter and YEP reporter Debbie Leigh, braved the abbey's vestry alone as part of the investigation.

"Spending 20 minutes alone in the vestry was one of the creepiest experiences of the entire series," said Debbie. "All I had was a camera for company. There were times when I definitely got the sense there was something in there with me.

"As the episode shows, I am quick to try and explain it away when I come back out, but whether that's me being too rational or trying to convince myself nothing could have happened is up to the viewers to decide."

To watch the episode, click here.