Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey
The first stretch of the Cleveland Way, from a market town to the finest abbey ruin in the north.
- Distance
- 13.1 km
- Ascent
- 280 m
- Time
- 3.5–4.5 h
- Grade
- Moderate
- Route
- Out and back
- High point
- 183 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
Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey is a moderate 13.1 km out-and-back walk with 280 m of ascent, taking 3.5 to 4.5 hours. It starts at Helmsley Market Place (grid reference SE 612 838). The start can be reached by public transport.
The Cleveland Way starts in Helmsley's market place and its first miles lead over the fields and through the woods to Rievaulx, where the ruins of a great Cistercian abbey fill a bend of the River Rye. The abbey is English Heritage (entry charge); the view of it from the lane is free.
Return the same way.
Route
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1
The Cleveland Way
Follow the Cleveland Way out of Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey, and return.
Summit
On the way
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Rievaulx AbbeyAbbey · on the route
Questions about this walk
- How long does Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey take?
- Most walkers take 3.5–4.5 hours for the 13.1 km route, which has 280 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 Helmsley Market Place (grid reference SE 612 838). Car parks in Helmsley (charge).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Buses to Helmsley from York and Scarborough. Check times on Traveline.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded moderate. Field and woodland paths, muddy after rain.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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