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Rievaulx Abbey

Rievaulx AbbeyRievaulx Abbey

If peace and tranquillity is what you seek from a family day out in Yorkshire, then the impressive ruins of Rievaulx Abbey are the perfect choice.

The former Cistercian abbey, set in a remote valley in the North York Moors National Park near Helmsley, is one of the most complete, and atmospheric, of England's abbey ruins.

The indoor museum has recently been transformed, featuring previously unseen artefacts, which tell the story of the rise and dramatic fall of the Cistercian abbey, while a new viewing window invites the abbey in. 

Enjoy the latest audio tour and learn about the monks in medieval times during your exploration of the ruins - how they devoted their lives to spiritual matters and at the same time established a thriving business to become one of the wealthiest monasteries in Britain.

Pick up the family trail and hunt for clues of medieval life while a new visitor centre welcomes you with a sweeping view up towards the abbey itself.

Afterwards enjoy delicious local food in the larger tearoom before taking a stroll around the beautiful grounds.

Why not follow in the footsteps of Saint Aelred, one of the county’s most famous abbots, and take the easy-to-follow walk from the medieval fortress of Helmsley Castle to the haven of Rievaulx.

Accessibility

Audio tours (also available for the visually impaired, those with learning difficulties and in French and German). Site has permanent induction loops. Accessible toilets.

Access to most of site is via fine, loose gravel paths and smooth grass, although there are some steps from the cloister and church. Site is on a slope and in some areas assistance may be required by manual wheelchair users. There are steps on the site.


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Facilities

  • Pay and display parking, refundable to English Heritage members and visitors upon admission to the site or café
  • Audio tours
  • Baby changing facilities
  • Café
  • Dogs allowed on leads
  • Educational resources
  • Events
  • Exhibition
  • Family trail
  • Guidebook available
  • Holiday cottage available to let
  • Museum
  • Picnic area
  • Shop
  • Toilets

Further information

Winter opening - Open Sat and Sun in winter
Public transport: Bus services, see Traveline Yorkshire

Rievaulx
Nr Helmsley
North Yorkshire
YO62 5LB
Tel: 01439 798228
Website

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