Museums and Abbeys
Jervaulx Abbey, near
Middleham
Jervaulx Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery located in a peaceful valley setting in the Vale of Ure, a few miles east of the Yorkshire Dales. The monastery was founded in 1156 as a daughter house of Byland Abbey. Apart from its historical significance and the beauty of the location, Jervaulx is known for its horticulture; over 180 varieties of wildflower grow in and on the abbey walls.
The Bowes Museum, County
Durham
The first sight of this French style château, just 13 miles from Scotch Corner, never fails to astonish.
Purpose built in the 19th Century by Joséphine Bowes, an artist and actress, a pioneer far ahead of her time with her great love and husband, John Bowes.
Boasting some of the best examples of European fine and decorative arts in the UK, including masterpieces by Canaletto, Goya and El Greco, there are stunning galleries dedicated to Fashion & Textiles, Silver & Metals, British Decorative Arts, Furniture and Ceramics. Acclaimed Exhibitions, a varied programme of events, a seasonal menu in the refurbished Café Bowes and fabulous gift shop set in 20 acres of beautiful parkland all make for a day out not to be missed
Kirkham Priory, near York
Kirkham Priory was founded as an Augustinian monastic house around 1120 by Walter Espec, Lord of Helmsley. It is rather surprising to consider that in its heyday, Kirkham Priory rivalled Rievaulx Abbey as one of the largest and wealthiest monastic settlements in the north of England. However, that heyday did not last long, and by the late 13th century Kirkham was deeply in debt. Somehow the monks held on until the priory was finally dissolved by Henry VIII.
Rievaulx Abbey, near Helmsley
The abbey was founded by St. Bernard of Clairvaux in 1132. It was here, in October 1322, that King Edward II had made camp after his unsuccessful campaign in Scotland. After their victory at Sutton Bank, the Scottish cavalry rode to Rievaulx Abbey in search of the king.
Edward was hustled from the abbey and made for Bridlington, to board a ship. He abandoned 100 men and his queen to beg for their lives. The Scottish forces seized all the goods Edward had left, including: his finery, personal treasury, armour, and the privy seal of England. In total the king left 100 horse loads of goods.
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey is a 12th-century Augustinian priory set in a superb position on the banks of the River Wharfe. The abbey was founded around 1154 by monks from Embsay who were granted land here by Lady Alice de Romille of Skipton Castle. Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire Dales, Yorkshire, England, BD23 6AL
Easby Abbey At Easby
Near Richmond stands the ruins of a Premonstratensian monastery established around 1300 on the banks of the River Swale. The refectory stands to a considerable height, and there are remnants of wall paintings in the old parish church within the abbey grounds. Easby Abbey is situated in a lovely dell in wooded countryside but within sight of Richmond Castle, and there is a path along the river joining the abbey and castle.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, near Ripon
Ancient abbey ruins and an awe-inspiring water garden at this World Heritage Site
From humble beginnings the magnificent abbey was established by devout monks seeking a simpler existence. The atmospheric ruins that remain are a window into a way of life which shaped the medieval world.
When the socially ambitious John Aislabie inherited Studley Royal, he set about creating an elegant water garden of mirror-like ponds, statues and follies, incorporating the romantic ruins into his design.
Green lawns stretch down to the riverside, a perfect spot for a picnic. Riverside paths lead to the deer park, home to Red, Fallow and Sika deer and ancient trees; limes, oaks, and sweet chestnuts.
One-of-a-kind, this special place is now recognised as a World Heritage Site.