Description
One of the most beautiful ruins in Europe is Fountains Abbey, some 4mi/6.4km southwest of Ripon. One should approach it through the large park of Studley Royal and over the Skell towards the octagonal tower. The abbey, founded in 1132 for the Cistercian order, then comes into view in all its splendor: one of the largest, most magnificent and best preserved of Britain's ruined abbeys and an excellent illustration of the process by which the dissolved monasteries were converted into private residences. Its name is derived from the several springs which have their source here. The walls have been completely preserved, creating an impressive effect, with a romantic air which is enhanced by the beauty of the setting. The monks acquired considerable wealth through sheep farming and dealing in wool, and were thus able to finance this splendid building they erected here. The church's nave and transepts are in the Transitional style (1135-1147); the tower is Perpendicular. The finest feature is the Chapel of the Nine Altars, in which the pointed arch makes its first appearance in England. Only the cloister has lost its arcading (probably of timber). The extensive monastic buildings, which give the monastery its imposing appearance, have largely been preserved. The chapterhouse, dormitory and lavatory, refectory and kitchen, infirmary and guesthouses were provided in duplicate, for monks and lay brothers.
Attractions within Fountains Abbey

Fountains Hall

Fountains Hall (1595-1611), partly built with material from Fountains abbey, contains an interesting collection of furniture.

Studley Royal Garden

The Fountains Abbey is the largest monastic ruin in Britain. It was built in 1132 while the gardens were an 18th C addition to the site. The water garden features formal lakes, tranquil ponds and
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St Marys Church

St Mary's Church is a Victorian church on the grounds of Studley Royal estate. It was built in the 1870s by William Burges and is currently being restored by the National Trust.
Address
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Garden / St Mary's Church
Studley Royal
Ripon HG4 3DY
United Kingdom
Hours
February 1 to March 31
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
Open10:0010:0010:0010:0010:0010:0010:00
Closed16:0016:0016:0016:0016:0016:0016:00
April 1 to September 30
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
Open10:0010:0010:0010:0010:0010:0010:00
Closed18:0018:0018:0018:0018:0018:0018:00
October 1 to October 31
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
Open10:0010:0010:0010:0010:0010:0010:00
Closed16:0016:0016:0016:0016:0016:0016:00
November 1 to January 31
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
Open10:0010:0010:0010:00Closed10:0010:00
Closed16:0016:0016:0016:0016:0016:00
Always closed on:
New Year's Day (January 1)
Christmas - Christian (December 25)
Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24)
Cost
Adult5.00
Group discounts4.50
Child3.00
Family14.00
All values are in local currency.
Tips
Family admission (2 adults, 3 children).
Last admission 1 hour before close.
Parking is free at the Visitor Center, but paid at the deer park.
Parking
Free
Disabled
Partial facilities for persons with disabilities.
Guides
Guided tour included with admission.
Facilities
Gift shop
Restaurant or food service
Wheelchair loan or rental
Transit
Bus: from Harrogate station, Keighley & District or Harrogate & District.
Typical Visit
2 hours
Attractions Near Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire Dales National Park