Skip to content
Skip to content

Christmas trail

Wrap up warm and set off on a festive adventure through the magnificent ruins and water gardens of Fountains Abbey.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Wrap up warm and set off on a festive adventure through the magnificent ruins and water gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Pick up your trail sheet from Admissions, follow the clues, and see what festive wonders you can uncover as you explore one of Yorkshire’s most magical winter landscapes. Perfect for children of all ages, it's a great way to enjoy some family fun in the fresh air this festive season.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

There are hard-standing paths around the estate and level access from the West Gate entrance. There are some slopes, including a hill with 15-20% gradient between the Visitor Centre and the abbey.

Meeting point

Head in to the estate through any admissions point: the Visitor Centre, West Gate or Studley Royal. There is level access from the West Gate entrance.

What to bring and wear

There are slopes and areas of uneven ground on the estate so please wear sturdy footwear. We are an outdoor site, so dress for the weather.

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

Event summary

on
7 Sep to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 12:30+ 111 other dates or times

Abbey tour 

Join one of our volunteer tour guides to discover more about the largest and most complete monastic ruins in the country.

Event summary

on
7 Sep to 1 Nov 2026
at 12:00 to 13:00+ 111 other dates or times

Monastic wealth tour 

Join one of our volunteer tour guides to discover more about what made this Cistercian Monastery so profitable.

Event summary

on
8 Sep to 20 Oct 2026
at 14:30 to 15:30+ 2 other dates or times

Wow! I didn't know that! walk 

Discover unusual facts about the trees and wildflowers Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal that'll make you say 'Wow! I didn't know that!'

Event summary

on
9 Sep 2026
at 14:00 to 15:30