Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

About Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal - National Trust

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique place made of two moments in history. Where medieval strength blends with 18th century eccentricity to create a landscape full of secrets, curiosities and breathtaking views.

Open year round, you can spend a few hours exploring the vast ruins and playful water garden or spend a full day wandering further into the acres of deer park with stunning views to the city of Ripon.

The ruins of Fountains Abbey

The ruins at Fountains Abbey are the largest monastic ruins in the country. Step back into a rich and dramatic past, imagine what life would have been like for the monks who first came here 900 years ago and learn how Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal became one.

Visitors can walk beneath vaulted ceilings, grand columns and an imposing tower. Nestled within a peaceful valley the monastic precinct also features the imposing Fountains Hall and Fountains Mill – the oldest standing building in the care of the National Trust.

Studley Royal water Garden & Deer Park

Experience the charm of Studley Royal Water Garden and Deer Park, a masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design. Stroll along elegant canals, ornamental lakes, and classical statues set within sweeping green vistas. Enjoy tranquil walks through picturesque gardens that blend art and nature in perfect harmony. The deer park offers a magical encounter with herds of wild red, fallow, and sika deer roaming freely. Ideal for peaceful walks, photography, and wildlife spotting.

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal on screen

The atmospheric ruins, playful garden and brooding gothic buildings of this vast World Heritage site have featured on film and TV for decades. In recent years, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal have been transformed into a post-apocalyptic lair swarming with ‘the infected’ (28 Years Later) the cellars of the Houses of Parliament (Gunpowder), a setting for sorcery (The Witcher) and a secret garden… twice!

Visiting with the kids

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is perfect for children, offering vast green spaces to run and play, fascinating ruins to explore, and wildlife spotting in the deer park. With scenic trails, family-friendly facilities, and plenty of history, it’s an adventure-filled day out that combines fun, learning, and nature. Don’t miss a visit to the huge playground near the visitor centre!

Eating and shopping

This is a place ideal for rumbling tummies, with a large restaurant cafés serving delicious local treats as well as scenic picnic spots for families or a quick stop with a flask of tea. The large gift-shop offers unique gifts, books, and artisan products, making it perfect for finding special souvenirs while enjoying a relaxing, picturesque setting.

For a longer walk

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal has stunning walking trails for all abilities, from gentle paths through landscaped gardens to longer routes around the deer park and abbey ruins. Each trail offers breathtaking views, rich history, and seasonal beauty, making it perfect for peaceful strolls or family adventures in nature. Take a look at the suggested routes on the website for more information.

Useful Information:

Opening hours

Open all year (excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Fridays November – January)

Check the website for opening times which vary seasonally and for evening events like Fountains by Floodlight in autumn.

Electric scooters are available to borrow – you’ll need to pre-book these by calling (01765) 608888. There is also a free visitor transport service that operates daily around the estate.

Dogs are welcome on short leads throughout the estate and a selected number of tables inside the visitor centre restaurant.

Images © National Trust.