Rievaulx Abbey

3:56pm Tuesday 4th April 2006

Rievaulx, Thirsk, YO62 5LB

Rievaulx Abbey was the first Cistercian monastery in Northern England, being colonised by 12 monks from Clairvaux in 1132.

These awesome monastic ruins, of what was once one of the wealthiest monasteries in medieval England, create a tremendous sense of history for the visitor and create vivid impressions of life centuries ago.

The ruin stands, in places, to its full original height and is a marvel to behold.

The nave is the earliest large Cistercian one in Britain, and the choir one of the finest examples of 13th century work.

The presbytery, built in the 13th century for the shrine of St Aelred, stands virtually to its full height.

Rievaulx Abbey displays a fine contrast between the simplicity of early Cistercian buildings and the intricate design of Gothic architecture.

Facilities: Museum, gift shop, toilets, parking, picnic areas, souvenir guide available, dogs only on a lead.

Disabled Access: Yes, to museum and most of site. Disabled toilet available.

Contact: (01439) 798228

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