Day Planner

What to do on site?
Which English Heritage properties are nearby?
Tourist Information

What to do on site?

Tour the Abbey

Take a break from the bustle of the modern world, and explore the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, in its tranquil valley setting. Rievaulx is among the most atmospheric and complete of all the ruined abbeys in the North. Immerse yourself in the stillness and beauty of this impressive monastic site, which attracted thousands of medieval pilgrims from far and wide.

Visit the exiting exhibition

Don’t miss the exciting indoor exhibition, The Work of God and Man which explores the the agricultural, industrial, spiritual and commercial aspects of Rievaulx’s history. Explore nearly 900 years of history displaying unique archeological finds. Recent archeological studies have revealed the remarkable extent of the Abbey’s influence and industry.

Audio Tour

Take an audio tour to help visualise monastic life hundreds of years ago, hear the voices guide you through 900 years of fascinating history. Audio tour also available in French and German.
 
Subject to availability.

Relax in the cafe

Unwind in the café and sit looking out at stunning views of the Abbey. Serving fresh locally sourced food and reflecting the best of Yorkshire produce. Alternatively, if weather permits, why not bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.

Take a walk to Helmsley Castle

Helmsley Castle is within reasonable walking distance of the Abbey, it can be reached via the Cleveland Way National Trail which is 3.5 miles between the two sites. Strong footwear is recommended.

Browse the shop

Remember your day at the Abbey by buying a souvenir from our shop. Purchase unusual gifts for that someone special, from gifts for Grandma and books for history buffs to unique jewellery for Mums and English jams for Dads you’re sure to find something to suit everyone’s tastes!
 

Which English Heritage properties are nearby?

Helmsley Castle

Distance: 3 miles
Explore 900 years of life at this impressive medieval castle. Discover how this castle evolved over the centuires, from a mighty medieval fortress, to a luxurious Tudor mansion, a Civil War stronghold and a romantic Victorian ruin.

Byland Abbey

Distance: 6.5 miles
One of the earliest Gothic buildings in the North Byland Abbey is a stunning example of one of the great Yorshire Cistercian abbeys. Its great circular window, now surviving only in part, was probably the model for the rose window of York Minster.
 
Pickering Castle
 
Distance: 16 Miles
A splendid 13th century castle and royal hunting lodge which is set in the attractive moors-edge town of Pickering. Please note Pickering Castle is open April – Septemer.

Tourist Information

The nearest Tourist Information Centre is located at Helmsley Castle, call 01439 770442.
 
For more information on things to see and do in the area please see www.yorkshiremoorsandcoast.com.
 
For more information about things to see and do in Yorkshire please see www.Yorkshire.com.

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