The sacristy is located between the S transept and the chapter house. It was reduced in size by a later dividing wall. It is possible that the layout was originally the same as at Fountains Abbey where, in this position, a through passage separates the S transept and the chapter house. The space to the E was a vestry communicating with the S transept, although iinitially the space may all have been a vestry or sacristry. The chamber has a simple doorway from the cloister, and the dividing wall has two reset capitals.

Outside, to the N of the sacristy, is a round-headed recess, or wall cupboard, on the W wall of the S transept; this was probably used for books. At Fountains this was the position of the tabula or noticeboard and a book cupboard.

See report Kirkstall: 01 Church for History, comments and bibliography.