Travel Diaries: Exploring Rievaulx Abbey

Hidden away in the North York Moors, Rievaulx Abbey, is one of the most well kept secrets in the Yorkshire countryside. I have been there quite a few times - during weekends and weekdays and it’s honestly never that busy. It’s one of the larger English Heritage sites in Yorkshire, and definitely worth the 50 minute drive from York.

History and architecture:

Founded in 1133, Rievaulx Abbey, was the first Cistercian abbey to be established in the north of England. It quickly became one of the most powerful and spiritually renowned centres of monasticism in Britain, housing a 650-strong community at its peak in the 1160s. However in 1538, like many monasteries, the abbey was suppressed by Henry VIII. It was then sold to an Earl and dismantled which eventually resulted in the abbey’s ruin. The ruin itself was the subject of many romantic paintings of the 18th and 19th century and of course is still a popular site to paint and visit today.

Rievaulx Abbey was built upon, dismantled and rebuilt many times during it’s lifetime. Mainly due to the capacity needs of the monastery throughout history. Therefore there are many different architectual aspects of the ruins that make for some great photographs.

Nature and the surrounding area

The North York Moors is one of the most beautiful areas of moorland in the UK, and are worth exploring by themselves. However they make an absolutely stunning backdrop for Rievaulx Abbey.

Logistics and entry

Rievaulx Abbey is a bit off the beaten track and can be a little tricky to navigate to. The best way to get there is by car and putting “Rievaulx Abbey” into Google Maps as the postcode for the site doesn’t get you exactly where you need to be.

The car park is a little bit smaller, but it is level and well kept making it easy to park. It also has disabled parking and step free access for those who need it.

An adult ticket is £11.50, a child ticket is £7.00 and a concession ticket (students and over 65s) is £10.00, all include a donation. However you can of course opt for a ticket without the donation attached. Alternatively, you could also become a English Heritage member - I have a membership with my husband and it is honestly worth every penny if you love exploring England and learning a little bit more about the historic sites our country has to offer.

Accessibility

Alot of the site has walkways and gravelled paths, making it pretty easy to walk around, providing you have comfy footwear. There are no intense inclines to walk up or any open steep drops. However if you have difficulty walking or standing, this site will probably be a little tricky to get around. You will still be able to visit the café and small museum on site though.

The site itself is pretty impressive and large. We spent around 2 and a half hours there including grabbing a snack at the onsite cafe. If you’re in the area it is definitely worth a visit!