Boxing Day Pilgrimage
Join the service in Ripon Cathedral at 9.30am before setting off on this ancient pilgrimage to the abbey where the service continues in the Cellarium from approx. 12 noon.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
In 1132, thirteen monks walked from Ripon to a completely deserted valley by the River Skell. There they started their own community and Fountains Abbey was born.
Follow in the monk's footsteps in this annual pilgrimage. The service will begin at Ripon Cathedral with a celebration of Eucharist at 9.30am. The Pilgrimage will begin from Ripon Cathedral at 10.15am and end with a service of carols and prayers in the abbey Cellarium at 12pm.
Please note that this year's route will take a diversion past St Mary's Church in the deer park due to construction work onsite.
Times
The basics
- Accessibility
Approximately 4 mile walk. Access to the abbey is across a level grassy green. When the grass is particularly wet this can be impassable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and prams.
- Meeting point
Meet for a service at Ripon Cathedral at 9:30am and follow the pilgrimage to the abbey.
- Suitability for children
Children are welcome
- What to bring and wear
Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.
- Other
Please note that this year's route will take a diversion past St Mary's Church in the deer park due to construction work onsite.
Upcoming events
Garden and abbey tour
Join one of our volunteer tour guides to discover the secrets and surprises of Studley Royal Water Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Abbey tour
Join one of our volunteer tour guides to discover more about the largest and most complete monastic ruins in the country.
Mill tour
Join one of our volunteer tour guides to find out more about the oldest building on the estate, Fountains Mill.
Uncover the mysteries of the masons' marks
Join one of our volunteer tour guides for an interactive tour of the hundreds of masons’ marks found carved into the runs of Fountains Abbey.