Yorkshire’s history is woven deeply within the region – so it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of abbeys here with their own tales to tell.
Blessed with natural beauty and rich heritage in abundance, Yorkshire was once home to an array of captivating abbeys. Following the creation of the Church of England by Henry VIII, these abbeys were dissolved and many of the structures were left to fall to ruins. But plenty still stand in some form today – offering a glimpse into days gone by in God’s Own County. Here are some of the best Yorkshire abbeys that are worthy of a day trip.
Whitby Abbey
Whitby boasts one of the most iconic abbeys in all of Yorkshire. A grand example of Gothic architecture, Whitby Abbey stands in an imposing position on the cliffs, overlooking the quaint seaside town and the waters of the North Sea.
This incredible landmark dates as far back as 657 AD, with a history that has taken it from one of the most significant Anglo-Saxon Chrisitan centres to Viking raids and the English Heritage site it is today. Famously, it also inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Visitors can walk up the 199 steps that featured in the horror classic, taking in the awe-inspiring views up to the abbey, where they can learn more in the on-site museum and visitor centre.
Whitby Abbey, Abbey Lane, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO22 4JT.
Kirkstall Abbey
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Lying just outside of Leeds city centre, Kirkstall Abbey is a wonderfully well-preserved Cistercian abbey – and one of the most complete examples in the country. Established in 1152, it served as a home to Cistercian monks for almost 400 years, who kept sheep on the land and made money from the wool trade.
Visit today and you’ll find a bustling space, with so much to see and do. Nearby woodlands, gardens and riverside walks invite you to explore nature, while the visitors centre lets you discover more about the superb structure’s story. There’s also events that run throughout the year, from markets to outdoor cinema screenings. Once you’ve worked up a hunger, be sure to drop into the Abbey Cafe for hot drinks and light bites, or head to the many nearby eateries.
Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Road, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH.
Fountains Abbey
The sprawling grounds of Fountains Abbey are truly something special. The ancient abbey ruins themselves hark back to 1132, when it was founded by Benedictine monks seeking a more devout, stripped-back way of life. But that’s just one part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The National Trust site near Ripon also boasts the breathtaking 18th-century Studley Royal Water Garden, which lovingly envelopes the ruins in its landscape. From rivers, ponds and cascades, to lawns, gardens and a deer park, there’s an endless ensemble of gorgeous sights to take in here. Be sure to check out their calendar when planning your visit too, as it frequently plays host to seasonal events and family-friendly activities.
Fountains Abbey, Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY.
Rievaulx Abbey
The striking ruins of Rievaulx Abbey are tucked away in a wooded valley in York – a setting specifically chosen for its natural beauty, tranquility and isolation. The abbey was founded by a local landowner as a settlement for a group of monks in 1130, and has been expanded and developed further over the centuries.
It was awarded Ancient Monument status in 1915, and is now owned and managed by English Heritage. As one of the UK’s best preserved Cistercian abbeys, it makes for an unforgettable day out. An on-site exhibition and museum lets you delve deeper, with artefacts on display and information on how the Rievaulx monks transformed the area. There’s also a cafe and shop on-site, sorting all your refreshment and souvenir needs.
Rievaulx Abbey, Rievaulx, Near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5LB.
Bolton Abbey
Bolton is one of the few abbeys in Yorkshire where religious services are still run to this day. It dates back to 1154 and once served as a priory to Augustinain monks. After the dissolution, the nave of the abbey was successfully secured and it continues to be part of the Priory Church today.
Elsewhere on the estate, there’s tons of family-friendly events and activities to enjoy throughout the year, whether it’s summer BBQs and playgrounds or a bite to eat at the The Cavendish Pavilion cafe and on-site tea rooms. With no shortage of walking routes offering views of waterfalls, an aqueduct and woodland – including an 800-year-old oak tree – you’re sure to work up an appetite here.
Bolton Abbey, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6EX.
Byland Abbey
Make your way to the southern end of the North York Moors and you’ll come across the ruins of Byland Abbey. Not much remains, but around 800 years ago, it was one of the largest Cistercian monasteries of its time – and its sheer scale and grand Gothic architecture can still be appreciated.
You won’t be the first to marvel at Byland Abbey, with the structure providing inspiration for many church buildings in the North that came after it, including the rose window in York Minster. Now owned by English Heritage, you can learn more about this important landmark through guided tours and the on-site museum, before treating yourself to the expertly crafted seasonal dishes that are served in neighbouring The Abbey Inn.
Byland Abbey, Byland, Coxwold, North Yorkshire, YO61 4BD.
Jervaulx Abbey
Unlike any other abbey on this list, Jervaulx Abbey is privately owned and managed. Thankfully though, the Burdon family open it to the public from dawn to dusk daily, keeping what remains of the 12th-century Cistercian abbey lovingly maintained for all to enjoy.
The ruins are nestled in a valley of the River Ure in the Yorkshire Dales, with surrounding grounds that feature a flurry of flora in the shape of trees, shrubs and wildflowers. All this contributes to a sense of peace and tranquility, and a place that feels like stepping back in time. If you find yourself enamoured with Jervaulx Abbey, you’ll be happy to hear that you can even host your wedding here.
Jervaulx Abbey, Jervaulx, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 4PH.
