Rievaulx Abbey


About Rievaulx Abbey

Escape to this tranquil valley of the North York Moors and discover the impressive ruins of one of England's most powerful Cistercian monasteries.

Rievaulx Abbey Ruins - Copyright English Heritage

Discover Rievaulx Abbey's fascinating past and the lives of the monks who called Rievaulx Abbey their home. In our museum, take a look at fascinating artefacts, including elaborate medieval stone carvings, chess pieces and gold coins, which tell the story of the rise and dramatic fall of the first Cistercian abbey in the North of England.

Rievaulx Abbey Ruins - Copyright English Heritage

Wander the extensive ruins of the abbey to discover more about the building and how it looked at various stages of its development. Pick up an audio tour to learn about the monks who lived at Rievaulx Abbey. Hear how they devoted their lives to their faith whilst transforming the abbey into one of the wealthiest monasteries in Britain.

Café at Rievaulx Abbey - Copyright English Heritage

After you’ve explored the magnificent abbey, head back to the visitor centre and treat yourself to a hot drink and cake, perhaps some homemade soup and a sandwich, in our café.

Visit Rievaulx Abbey

Accessibility

For more information on accessibility, please go to

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rievaulx-abbey/plan-your-visit/access/

Facilities

Rievaulx Abbey provides a range of facilities to offer you a fantastic day out

Café/on site catering

The café serves hot and cold drinks and a selection of high-quality food using locally sourced ingredients. There's a choice of hot and cold meals, sandwiches, soup, cakes, tray bakes and scones all freshly prepared on site.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy free options, along with lunchboxes for smaller appetites are offered.
There is an outdoor terrace where you can soak up the atmosphere of the Abbey while enjoying your meal or afternoon tea.
Visitors can enjoy the café without admission to the abbey.

Car parking

Parking charges apply to non-members. Parking free for members.

Picnic site

Picnic benches are available in the grounds of the abbey.

Dogs at Rievaulx Abbey

Dogs on short leads are welcome in the ruins and café but not at the café counter.
Assistance dogs welcome across the site.

Getting here

Contact us

Rievaulx, Nr Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5LB
01439 798228

Location

In Rievaulx; 2 1⁄4 miles N of Helmsley, on minor road off B1257.

Public transport

Helmsley (approx. 2 mile walk) served by following bus services:
Stephenson’s 29, 31, 31X, 194, 195
Scarborough & District 128.
Moorsbus on Sundays during August & September.

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