The abbey at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

The dramatic abbey ruins at Fountains are the largest monastic ruins in the country. Step back into a rich and dramatic past and imagine what life would have been like for the monks who first came here all those years ago.

The ruins of Fountains Abbey
Fountains Abbey in the olden time, drawn in 1841 by John Richard Walbran

The history of Fountains Abbey 

The dramatic abbey ruins at Fountains are the largest monastic ruins in the country. Step back into a rich and dramatic past and imagine what life would have been like for the monks who first came here all those years ago.

a lady walks past hubys tower at fountains abbey and studley royal.

Learn more at Porter's Lodge 

Find out more about the history of the Abbey in the Porter’s Lodge exhibition. Tucked inside the original gatehouse is the contemporary structure which houses the interpretation centre.

A grandmother and granddaughter touching the herbs in the garden at Swanley Grange

Explore Swanley Grange  

Discover more about Fountains Abbey’s agricultural past. Try your hand at heritage crafts, venture into the medieval veg garden and meet the feathered and woolly residents of this special grange.

National Trust Education Officer and a school group at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, North Yorkshire

Learning at Fountains Abbey 

Experience a day in the life of a monk, go pond dipping, den building or even camp out under the stars when you bring your educational group to our special place.

National Trust Images / Paul Harris

Group visits to Fountains Abbey 

Groups of visitors have been coming to our special place since the 18th-century. With guided tours, self-led visits and a discount on admission prices come and find out what makes this World Heritage Site so special.

Explore the estate

Two ladies walk towards the abbey ruin on an autumnal day at fountains abbey and studley royal

What can you do at Fountains Abbey? 

Planning your day out? Start here to find out what you get on your visit to Fountains Abbey. We warn you though - you'll need a full day to soak up the full experience, starting with the abbey...

Two women strolling amongst the moon ponds and statues of Studley Royal water garden

What can you do in the water garden? 

You've explored the abbey and now it's time for the water garden. Designed in the 18th century these gardens hold a place on the world stage, granted World Heritage Status in 1986. Find out what you can do on your visit here.

An autumnal view of Jacobean mansion Fountains Hall

Exploring further... 

Discover our hidden gems including Fountains Mill built by the Cistercians in the 12th-century, it's one of the oldest buildings on the estate. We're also home to a deer park, church and grand hall.

Having tea in Studley Royal tearoom

Enjoy a tasty treat 

After an energetic walk or a short stroll why not enjoy a bite to eat with us. Our food hasn't traveled far and tastes all the better for it. Whether you're wanting an ice-cream in summer or a Christmas lunch in December, come together over some tasty food on a good days exploring.

Childrens toys for Christmas from the National Trust shop

Treat yourself in the shop 

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

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The Nativity trail

Follow the stars to discover scenes of the nativity by the abbey and in the garden.

Wed 19 Dec 2018

+ 15 other dates

10:00-16:00

1930s Christmas at Fountains Hall

Discover what Christmas would be like in the 1930s at Fountains Hall this festive season.

Wed 19 Dec 2018

+ 15 other dates

10:00-16:00

Festive Christmas lunches

Tuck into a delicious festive lunch with family, friends or colleagues this December.

Wed 19 Dec 2018

+ 1 other date

12:00-13:30

Father Christmas Grotto

What’s that sound? It’s the jingle of reindeer bells – Father Christmas is touching down at Fountains Abbey this year and he comes bearing gifts.

Sat 22 Dec 2018

+ 1 other date

11:00-15:00

Children's craft at Swanley Grange

Get in the festive spirit making your own wonderfully woolly star decoration.

Sat 22 Dec 2018

+ 13 other dates

11:00-16:00

Winter abbey tours

If these walls could talk...

Sat 22 Dec 2018

+ 36 other dates

13:30-14:30

Music and Lights

Here at Fountains we're getting into the Christmas spirit and have just the thing to enjoy on a chilly winter weekend: glowing lights, festive music and delicious food and drink. Come and join us!

Sat 22 Dec 2018

+ 2 other dates

14:00-17:00

Boxing Day Pilgrimage

Follow the monks in their footsteps in this annual traditional pilgrimage.

Wed 26 Dec 2018

09:30-12:00

Wedding Open Days

Come and find inspiration for your perfect wedding day here at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal.

Sun 20 Jan 2019

+ 2 other dates

10:30-13:00

Going Digital photography workshops

Discover how to get the best out of your camera with these photography workshops with Pandora. Learn the basics in an inspiring setting or discover how to capture the perfect landscape.

Sat 23 Feb 2019

+ 5 other dates

10:00-16:00