The Fountains Way

A rewarding way to arrive at Fountains Abbey on foot, via rural paths from Ripon and the stately lime avenue through Studley Royal Deer Park. The return stretch of this circular walk takes you through the Seven Bridges Valley.
Start point
Ripon bus station, grid ref: SE314714Trail information
*A moderate walk along mostly flat footpaths through parkland. For further details, please see section marked Terrain.
**An alternative wheelchair, pushchair and mobility vehicle friendly route option is available. For further details, please see section marked Access.
***Please keep dogs on a short lead at all times. For further details, please see section marked Facilities.
Annual mating season
Please take extra care during the months of October and November when the annual mating season – deer rut – takes place. Ensure you keep your distance and have dogs on a short lead at all times.
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Fountains Abbey Estate Boundary walk
See all the highlights of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal on a circular walk, taking in the Abbey ruins, hall, deer park and 18th-century water garden.

Fountains Abbey ancient trees walk
Explore the highlights of the park on this circular walk and learn more about the ancient trees in the deer park and insights into the 18th-century landscape.
Get in touch
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Accessibility Information
If you would like more accessibility information on the Fountains Way accessible route, you can watch this video from Experience Community, which shows the accessible route and describes the route’s terrain, surfaces and accessibility features so you know what to expect before you go.

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Walking in Ripon
Ripon is a wonderful place for walks, with its charming streets, riverside paths, and green open spaces. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a longer, more scenic route, there’s plenty to enjoy. Discover a variety of walks in Ripon and the surrounding area.

Walking in Yorkshire
Discover some of the best walks in Yorkshire, from rugged Pennine beauty spots, views over the coast, to parkland and meadows perfect for a family stroll. Most are dog friendly and many can be enjoyed as part of your day out to the nearest National Trust property.

Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.

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The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.

Things to do at Studley Royal
The evocative ruins of the abbey are set beside the grounds of Studley Royal, a medieval deer park in Yorkshire. It was declared Yorkshire’s first World Heritage Site in 1986.

Eating and shopping at Fountains Abbey
Break up your adventures at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal with some tasty refreshments. Afterwards, look for the perfect gift or a treat for yourself in the National Trust shop and plant centre.