Was just a quick impromtu visit as was having lunch in nearby Helmsley. The Abbey is an English Heritage property so watch out for any overzelous staff. There are the usual English Heritage on-site amenities available including parking.
Rievaulx Abbey is a historic monastery located near Helmsley in North Yorkshire, England. Founded in 1132 by Cistercian monks from Clairvaux, it became one of England's most powerful and wealthy abbeys and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, large arches and intricate stonework. Even as a ruin, it showcases the grandeur of medieval monastic life. Nestled in a tranquil valley, surrounded by the North York Moors, it offers breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion, reflecting the monks' desire for peace and contemplation. The abbey was a religious, economic, and cultural hub, with monks leading a life of prayer, study, and labour. They also managed vast estates and were skilled in agriculture and sheep farming. At its peak, the Abbey housed over 140 monks and 500 lay brothers, making it a major influence in the Cistercian order and the local economy. Like many others, the abbey fell into decline after the Dissolution of the Monasteries under King Henry VIII in 1538, when it was stripped of its wealth and abandoned. Managed by English Heritage, the Abbey is a popular tourist destination and visitors can explore its ruins, learn about its history through the museum, and enjoy the serene surroundings. Rievaulx Abbey stands as a striking testament to medieval monastic life and holds a significant place in England's religious and cultural heritage. Its impressive ruins continue to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into its storied past and a serene space for reflection.
There are a couple of places on the adjacent road to TOAL and maintain VLOS and if it's not too busy you can park on the roadside.
Land owner permission requirements unknown.
View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.
Co-ordinates: 54.25816, -1.118545 • what3words: ///
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