Day Planner
What to do on site?
Which English Heritage properties are nearby?
Which other places of interest are nearby?
The Abbey
Suggested time needed: 1 hour
Take a break from the bustle of the modern world, and explore the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, in its tranquil valley setting.
‘The Work of God and Man’ indoor exhibition
Suggested time needed: 30-45 minutes
Discover the agricultural, industrial, spiritual and commercial aspects of Rievaulx’s history. This exhibition employs a variety of lively and interactive displays.
Rievaulx Cafe
Suggested time needed: As long as you like!
Relax in the newly opened Rievaulx café, and enjoy fresh, locally sourced food, reflecting the best of Yorkshire produce.
Cleansing of the Sole at Rievaulx Abbey, Saturdays from 14 July to 22 September
Suggested time needed: Between 11.00am and 3.00pm
Visitors to Rievaulx Abbey can now benefit from a relaxing foot massage after their visit, as a foot-washing tradition last seen over 450 years ago is resurrected for three Saturdays in September. The foot refresh and massage will be offered free of charge for adult visitors.
Which English Heritage properties are nearby?
Helmsley Castle
Distance: 3 miles, Helmsley Castle can be reached on foot from Rievaulx via the Cleveland Way National Trail. Approx. 31⁄2 miles (11⁄2 hours) each way. Strong footwear required.
Surrounded by spectacular banks and ditches, the great medieval castle’s impressive ruins stand beside the attractive market town of Helmsley. Visit the brand new visitor centre to learn all about the history of thise site.
Byland Abbey
Distance: 6.5 miles
Byland was one of the great Yorkshire Cistercian abbeys, and one of the earliest Gothic buildings in the north. The museum displays colourful interpretation panels together with archaeological finds from the site, giving insight into monastic life.
Which other places of interest are nearby?
Duncombe Park
Distance: 2.5 miles
Duncombe Park is amongst Yorkshire ’s greatest historic houses and estates, with something for everyone to enjoy, including stately rooms, stunning gardens and miles of parkland walks.
North Yorkshire Moors National Park
Distance: Surrounding area
The North York Moors National Park is one of the finest landscapes in Britain. Miles of stunning heather, towering sea cliffs, secluded beaches and grassy dales give it a character all of its own.