Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens - West Gate Entrance - Ripon

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens - West Gate Entrance

Located in the picturesque county of North Yorkshire, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and natural beauty. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a stunning abbey, beautiful gardens, and a tranquil water garden.

Address: Fountains Ln, Ripon HG4 3DZ, United Kingdom
Phone: (Not available)
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk

Specialties

• Tourist information center
• On-site services
• Wheelchair-accessible car park
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet
• Toilet
• Credit cards
• Debit cards
• NFC mobile payments
• Good for kids

Other points of interest

The site offers a range of attractions and activities, including the stunning Fountains Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the abbey ruins, learn about its history and significance, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding gardens. The Studley Royal Water Garden is another highlight, featuring beautiful lakes, walking trails, and picturesque gardens.

The site also offers a range of dining options, including the cafe near the Abbey ruins, which serves a range of delicious food and drink. Visitors can also enjoy a cream tea in the tranquil surroundings.

Opinions

Visitors have consistently praised the site for its stunning beauty, rich history, and excellent facilities. Many have commented on the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are happy to answer questions and provide information. Some have also praised the site's accessibility features, which make it easy for visitors with disabilities to enjoy the attractions.

The site has an average rating of 4.8/5 on Google My Business, with reviewers praising its beauty, history, and excellent facilities. Visitors have also commented on the site's value for money, with many considering it to be a great day out for families and individuals alike.

👍 Reviews of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens - West Gate Entrance

Melinda T.

5/5

WOW!!! Don't hesitate to visit. My husband and I spent an entire day here and walked 12 kms. I had no idea there was so much to see on this property; it's the gift that keeps on giving. The highlight was sitting outdoors at the cafe near the Abbey ruins and enjoying a cream tea. Can't wait to go back.

Rob C.

5/5

Fountains Abbey is well worth a visit. So much to see. There are guided walks which I recommend. Our guide was very knowledgeable, and spends time explaining everything, which is very interesting and worthwhile. Also takes you to the best places for photographs. Some outstanding views to be had. A visit here will probably take up a whole day, as there is so much to see.

Paulina P.

5/5

National Trust has many lovely places to visit. Our trip to Fountains Abbey was enjoyable. Place is quite big and you can spend there half of a day. Great for families, relax and walking.

Tony S.

5/5

This World Heritage Site is under the care of the National Trust. This was my first visit and it absolutely lived up to expectations.
I visited on a beautiful spring day at Easter. Being a school half term, many families had brought their children to enjoy the various activities that the Trust had provided to celebrate Easter. Many people took advantage of the glorious weather to picnic in the spectacular grounds.
The Abbey lays partly in ruins but is still very substancial and you can appreciate how important it once was. Walking around the grounds you will come across Fountains Mill. Water appears to have been important in the siting of the Abbey.
Walking from the Abbey to the deer park you can enjoy the Royal Water Garden.
The path takes in,Temple of Fame, Temple of Piety and the Octagonal Tower. Then walk over the water cascade towards the park entrance.
A small detour back up a sloping path will take you to the Banqueting House.
Refreshments and toilets are situated at the entrance to the park. The park is large and the deer are free to roam. Having seen two groups I decided to head back to the car park. This route took me past St Mary's Church.
The restaurant, tea rooms and picnic areas provide plenty of choice in making it great day out.
From 21 June until 21 December 2025, there is an immersive art installation by Ed Kluz.

Arielle M.

5/5

What an incredible place. The monastery is mind-blowing. It's humongous, and so much of it is still standing in spite of its age. The gardens are beautiful, like something you might see at a French palace. The walks giving views down onto the river and over the gardens are gorgeous. We will be going back to take it in even more.

Dave P.

5/5

Visited Fountains Abbey & gardens today (24 May 25) and was pleasantly surprised. Staff were exceptional and informative. We did a ninety minute walking tour with John. It was a relaxed interesting tour and John answered all our questions well and provided us with a comprehensive explanation of the history of the Abbey and the life of the Benedictine Monks.

Ian B.

5/5

Have visited here a number of times over the years and on a nice sunny day it’s always as good as ever. Free parking in the 2 main A & B car parks but pay at the Studley Roger end. Walk from Car park B to cafe at the far end and back is just over 3 miles. Large cafe and picnic areas dotted about.

James H.

5/5

Fantastic day out fountains abbey is simply stunning.
Study royal water gardens equally beautiful.
Quite expensive if your not a national trust member good car parking and toilets.