Byland Abbey, nr Helmsley (North York Moors)

13th Century Byland Abbey provides a glimpse into the workings of one of the great Yorkshire Cistercian abbeys.

Summary

13th century buildings (or older)
Free car parking (on site)

Food and Drinks

Restaurant
Bar
Picnic area

Introduction

13th Century Byland Abbey provides a glimpse into the workings of one of the great Yorkshire Cistercian abbeys. Explore the ruins and visit the museum to see archaeological finds.

History to the present day

Byland was one of the great Yorkshire Cistercian abbeys, housing at its zenith well over 200 monks and lay brothers. Much of its huge cathedral-sized church survives, including the whole north side and the greater part of the 13th-century west front. The mixture of rounded Romanesque and pointed Gothic arches shows how architectural styles changed, and reveals that Byland was one of the earliest Gothic buildings in the north. Its great circular rose window, now surviving only in part, was probably the model for the rose window of York Minster.

The museum displays colourful interpretation panels together with archaeological finds from the site, giving an insight into monastic life.

Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley Castle are within reasonable travelling distance.

Food and Drinks

The Byland Abbey Inn is close-by for English food made from the finest local ingredients.

The Inn was adapted from medieval buildings within the monastic precinct, and used as a farmhouse before being converted to a pub in the 20th century.

Other facilities

Toilets at Abbey Inn.

Toilets: Adapted WC in main car park, reached via small concrete ramp.

Access to abbey and grounds: Via smooth grass. Custodians will advise wheelchair users of a route around the ruins which avoids steps. Benches provided. NB Some grass areas may be marshy in wet weather.

Museum: one step.

Parking: 70m from main car park (behind Abbey Inn) to entrance; 20m from smaller car park. Main car park has loose gravel. Disabled visitors may be set down at entrance gate, but beware passing cars.

Visually Impaired Visitors: Carved stonework to touch in museum.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Byland Abbey, North York Moors, , United Kingdom

Directions: 2 miles South of A170, between Thirsk and Helmsley; near Coxwold village.

Train Access: Thirsk 10 miles.

Bus Access: Stephensons 31X, Moorsbus M7, M15 York - Helmsley.

Opening Times: April to March

1 Apr-30 Sept 11am-6pm Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.

Admission Price:

Adult: £4.00

Children: £2.00

Concession: £3.40

Photographs courtesy of English Heritage Photo Library.