Rievaulx Terrace

Rievaulx Terrace is an 18th-century garden laid out along a wooded escarpment in North Yorkshire. The pathway runs the length of the slope with views down to abbey ruins in the valley and the broader Yorkshire countryside beyond, punctuated by two temples at either end.

Thomas Duncombe III created this terrace around 1758 as part of his Helmsley estate redesign. It embodied 18th-century English landscape principles by merging artistic planning with the natural slope and incorporating views of the existing abbey ruins.

Two Palladian temples sit at opposite ends of the terrace, each reflecting different architectural styles and purposes. The Ionic structure displays ornate ceiling paintings, while its counterpart incorporates salvaged stones from the nearby abbey ruins.

The site is accessible via maintained pathways that remain open throughout the year and connect the main features. Wear suitable footwear as the terrain is hilly and can become slippery when wet.

The Ionic Temple contains a dining table that remains permanently set as if awaiting guests, an unusual preservation choice. The temple's basement houses displays exploring how English landscape design evolved over time.

Location: Rievaulx

Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/rievaulx-terrace

GPS coordinates: 54.25529,-1.11453

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:05