Trains to Rievaulx Abbey

About Rievaulx Abbey

When Rievaulx Abbey was founded in 1132, it was the first Cistercian abbey in northern England - and it grew to become one of the most renowned centres of monasticism in the country. The Abbey reached its peak in the 1160s, with a 650-strong community, and it augmented its income by mining lead and iron, and selling wool. Eventually Rievaulx became one of the wealthiest abbeys in England, with estates of over 6,000 acres.

By the 14th century Rievaulx's power was in decline due to financial debt, raiding attacks from Scotland and a depletion of manpower caused by the Black Death. The final blow was Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries - in 1538 Henry ordered Rievaulx's buildings to be rendered uninhabitable and stripped of all assets. By this time the abbey's community had declined to just 23 monks.

From the late 18th century the picturesque ruins at Rievaulx became a popular destination for sightseers. Visitors today can enjoy these grand ruins and scenic views, take the pilgrim's walk from Helmsley to Rievaulx, and listen to an audio tour. While you're in the area, stop off at the National Trust-owned Rievaulx Terrace, a hilltop viewpoint that offers spectacular views down to the abbey.