Fountains Abbey
one of the most famous ruins in Britain
Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY
Visit WebsiteFountains Abbey. Probably one of the most famous ruins in Britain, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the earliest locations in Britain to be designated as such. But did you know that this accolade is actually due to the stunningly beautiful water gardens which you can also see here?
- Children Welcome
- Coffee Machine
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Refreshments
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
Wander from the bustling visitor centre to the dramatic ruins, before continuing on for a gentle stroll to the water gardens where the atmosphere is altogether more serene than it is at the abbey. Statues and temples are scattered along the main pathways, or veer away to walk through ancient yew trees, some of which have been growing here since the monks lived in the abbey. When you’re ready for lunch, call into one of the two cafés, or take a picnic and relax on the lawn in front of the abbey.
Fountains Abbey is wonderful whenever you choose to visit, but it is never more spectacular than in autumn. The trees put on a vivid display of fiery colour and the distant bellow of stags in the deer park rings through the air – particularly awe-inspiring on a misty October morning.
In addition, every October, the National Trust hosts an event called ‘Fountains by Floodlight’ where they open the abbey after dark and you can wander through the floodlit halls of the monastery to the echoing sounds of a choir singing. It’s a truly magical experience and we’d definitely recommend planning your visit around this spectacle.
The deer park is a part of the site which is less frequented by visitors, but no less worth a visit. Keep your eyes peeled for the herd of red deer who live in the park (dogs should be on leads for this reason) and aim for the charming church of St. Mary’s to see one of the most gorgeously decorated churches in England.
For dogs, the Valley of the Seven Bridges is the highlight of the day. From the lake where the water gardens meet the deer park, follow the River Skell as is twists and tumbles its way towards the ancient city of Ripon. You can follow the river all the way to the city, but most walkers prefer to let their dogs have a good sprint around the woods and a splash in the river before heading back to Fountains Abbey for a cup of tea and slice of cake.
For The Dogs
Bring a lead for the abbey/water gardens and a ball for the woods. Water-loving dogs may also splash in the river, so a towel might be worth bringing along too.
Opening Hours
The abbey, water gardens, visitor centre car park, restaurant and tea room open from 10am daily. The shop and café open from 11am daily. The deer park opens from 6am daily.
Parking
There are a number of National Trust car parks to choose from.
The Area
Fountains Abbey perches on the edge of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Not officially a part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the AONB is no less beautiful than its more famous neighbour and much less busy. Venture deeper into the AONB to discover some of North Yorkshire’s most scenic reservoirs, the perfect place for adventures on four paws. Thruscross Reservoir, just south of the charming town of Pateley Bridge, is justifiably popular with locals, but head up to Scar House reservoir at the Head of Nidderdale to really get a taste of the wild side of the Dales.
