Rievaulx Abbey Walk

Route Description for Rievaulx Abbey Walk

Featuring the gorgeous ruins of the 12th Century Rievaulx Abbey that was - prior to being seized and disestablished by King Henry VIII in 1538 - one of the great abbeys of England, the Rievaulx Abbey Walk is an exceptional adventure that will also provide some lovely views of the surrounding countryside. While there is a car park at the abbey, it is reserved for visitors to the ruins themselves, meaning that you will need to either book a tour or find parking in the village nearby.

Setting out from the car park, you will head to the southwest along the winding banks of the River Rye, before heading west on Bridge Road. From here, you will pass by several ponds and climb uphill through the forest to the north, making your way across some picturesque fields to eventually descend the hillside.

After making your way through the Low Giull and High Gill forests, you will pass by the village of Old Byland and continue on to the northeast to further descend the hillside. Once you have met up with the River Rye, follow it to the southeast and take in the natural beauty of the riverside setting, as you work your way back towards the beginning of the walk at the historic Rievaulx Abbey.