About

The grounds of Rievaulx Abbey are open. Takeaway catering is available. Our shop is open but all other indoor areas remain closed, and safety measures are in place to keep everyone safe. You need to book your visit in advance. Please keep in mind the government’s latest advice on travelling. Find out more below.

Escape the crowds and experience the serene beauty of this impressive monastic site, in the middle of the North York Moors National Park.

Rievaulx Abbey was founded by St Bernard of Clairvaux in 1132 and became one of England’s wealthiest monasteries before its dissolution by King Henry VIII in 1538. Highlights of this long history are displayed in the indoor interactive museum, and The Work of God and Man exhibition shows how religion blended with business in the lives of the monks.

Visitors are now able to enjoy a new Museum displaying objects that shed light on the uniqueness of Rievaulx and the fascinating people who founded and developed the Abbey.

Also see our brand new Visitor Centre with the stunning backdrop of the Abbey.

Afterwards there's delicious local food to enjoy in the Tea Room and, for families wanting to let off steam, plenty of walking and cycling trails around the site.

Family friendly resources and activities, with a Tea Room onsite. Audio tours are included in the admission price.

Important Information

You now need to book your timed tickets in advance to visit Rievaulx Abbey. We have introduced limits on visitor numbers to help keep everyone safe, and you won't be able to visit without your booking confirmation. If you're a member your ticket will be free, but you still need to book in advance.

You can only book for visits until 16 May 2021. Tickets for visits after this date will go on sale as soon as we have more details of our opening arrangements. We’ll update this page when we have more information to share.

The time shown on your ticket is the earliest you can arrive, and you can arrive at any point within an hour of that time. You're then welcome to stay for as long as you like.