Ancient abbey ruins and an awe-inspiring water garden at this World Heritage Site
With swans swimming, bees buzzing and dragonflies dancing Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is alive with activity this summer and not just for the animals. Explore whether the abbey is a Monastic Powerhouse or a Romantic Folly, join a wildlife walk and family activities.
For centuries people have been drawn to this inspiring place.
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.
| Gift Aid | Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | £17.60 | £16.00 |
| Child | £8.80 | £8.00 |
| Family | £44.00 | £40.00 |
|
Group Adult
Minimum group size 15
|
N/A | £15.20 |
|
Group Child
Minimum group size 15
|
N/A | £7.60 |
Most of our places run the Gift Aid on Entry scheme at their admission points.
Under this scheme, if you're not a member you have the choice of two entry tickets:
If the place runs Gift Aid on Entry, we'll offer you a clear choice between the Gift Aid Admission prices and the Standard Admission prices at the admission point. It's entirely up to you which ticket you choose.
Gift Aid Admission includes a 10 per cent or more voluntary donation. Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
An extra £1 paid under the scheme can be worth over £3 to the National Trust as shown below:
| Gift Aid | Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Amount paid by visitor | £11.00 | £10.00 |
| Tax refund from Government* | £2.75 | £0.00 |
| Total received by the National Trust | £13.75 | £10.00 |
*Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
National Trust and English Heritage members free (except English Heritage corporate and education memberships). Free admission to St Mary's Church.
All members need to bring their cards, including family passes.
A family ticket includes 2 adults and 3 children. Under 5s go free.
