Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

There's acres of space where little legs can explore and imaginations can run riot here this summer. The days are long and the sun is shining. Grab a picnic and spend a full day running, jumping and exploring.. Rosy cheeks and muddy knees are the aim of the day and families can spend hours together discovering the huge abbey ruin and vibrant new artworks in the Studley water garden.

Walk through the water garden this summer to discover unexpected large scale landscape artworks. Inspired by the history of Studley Royal, these colourful and distinctive installations bring to life the spirit of the garden as the original designers intended it – playful, extraordinary and controversial. What will you make of them?

Following a successful bid for funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the National Trust and Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are now in the delivery phase of the Skell Valley Project. The £2.5 million scheme will start later in 2021 and run to 2024.

Discover the past, present and future of Fountains Abbey, as archaeologist Mark Newman takes us on a journey of his discoveries. From ancient floor tiles to monks graves and the new visitor centre at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden in North Yorkshire.

After an energetic walk or a short stroll why not enjoy a bite to eat with us. Our food hasn't travelled far and tastes all the better for it. Tuck into a scone, indulge in some cake or revive yourself with a hearty meal in the visitor centre restaurant.

Find delicious chutneys, unique teas and find fresh blooms in the plant centre as well as gifts and seasonal products in our visitor centre shop.