Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
The biggest monastic ruin in England and the Georgian water garden laid out below it.
- Distance
- 5.7 km
- Ascent
- 100 m
- Time
- 1.5–2 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 122 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is an easy 5.7 km circular walk with 100 m of ascent, taking 1.5 to 2 hours. It starts at Fountains Abbey visitor centre (grid reference SE 272 686).
Fountains Abbey was founded in 1132 and grew into the richest Cistercian house in England; its ruins are still enormous. In the 18th century the Aislabie family built Studley Royal water garden in the valley below, with canals, moon ponds, temples and views framed on the abbey. Together they are a World Heritage Site.
The loop takes in the abbey, the water garden and the deer park. The abbey and garden are National Trust with an entry charge; the deer park is free.
Route
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1
The abbey
Walk down to the abbey ruins.
-
2
The water garden
Follow the valley through the water garden to the lake and return through the deer park.
Summit
On the way
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Fountains AbbeyAbbey · on the route
Questions about this walk
- How long does Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal take?
- Most walkers take 1.5–2 hours for the 5.7 km route, which has 100 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Fountains Abbey visitor centre (grid reference SE 272 686). National Trust car park (charge for non-members).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Buses from Ripon in summer. Check times on Traveline.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Surfaced and gravel paths with some gentle climbs.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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