Rievaulx Abbey, Cistercian monastery ruins in Helmsley, England
The ruins of Rievaulx Abbey extend across a valley floor, featuring remaining walls, arches, and columns of the former religious complex.
Founded in 1132 by twelve monks from Clairvaux Abbey, Rievaulx became the first Cistercian monastery established in northern England.
The monastery developed into a center of learning where monks produced manuscripts, conducted religious services, and maintained agricultural activities.
English Heritage maintains the site, offering visitors access to an exhibition center with medieval artifacts and architectural displays from excavations.
The monks altered the course of River Rye three times during the 12th century to create sufficient flat land for construction.
Location: Helmsley
Inception: March 5, 1132
Operator: English Heritage
Website: http://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rievaulx-abbey
GPS coordinates: 54.25750,-1.11667
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:40
Helmsley Castle
3.7 km
Duncombe Park
3.8 km
Rievaulx Terrace
283 m
Ryedale Windypits
2.3 km
Church of All Saints, Helmsley
3.7 km
Helmsley Town Hall
3.8 km
Swiss Cottage
129 m
Church of St Mary
203 m
St Aidan's Church
3.8 km
Church of Saint Mary
3.1 km
Church of All Saints
2.7 km
Helmsley Walled Garden
3.6 km
Rievaulx Bridge
758 m
Bow Bridge
917 m
Doric Temple
607 m
Helmsley War Memorial
3.7 km
Laundry
3.2 km
Ionic Temple
294 m
Ionic Temple
3.5 km
Northern Stable Block
3.4 km
Milestone, Approximately Half A Mile East Of Rievaulx Village
784 m
Milestone East South East Of Rievaulx Village
2.2 km
Milepost Approximately 30 Metres South Of High Lodge
3.7 km
Wayside cross base on south side of the churchyard wall at Scawton
3.1 km
Griff Cross, wayside cross 800m NNE of Griff Farm on the road from Helmsley to Rievaulx
1.5 km
36, 38, 40, 44 And 46, High Street
3.5 km
Milestone, on long straight
3.7 km
Milestone, on straight road
3.7 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes