Jervaulx Abbey
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Overview
The high walls of this superb ruined Cistercian monastery, midway between Masham and Layburn, make it a truly evocative place. In summer it is filled with the scent of the glorious wild flowers that grow around the crumbling stonework. Jervaulx is on private land but open access is allowed to visitors, with an honesty box for admission money. There is a very pleasant tea room and gift shop. Jervaulx was founded in 1156 and eventually owned much of Wensleydale. Sheep, cattle and horses were bred here by the monks, who were the first to make Wensleydale cheese. The last Abbot of Jervaulx, Adam Sedbar, or Sedbergh, was a vociferous opponent of the Dissolution and his protests caused him to be hanged at Tyburn Hill in London. Despite its ruinous state there’s still plenty for you to see here, such as the staircase – known as the Night Stairs – which led the from the monks’ upstairs dormitory to the church for services held through the night. You can also trace the cloister, the infirmary, the kitchen and the parlour.
About the area
North Yorkshire, with its two National Parks and two designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is England’s largest county and one of the most rural. This is prime walking country, from the heather-clad heights of the North York Moors to the limestone country that is so typical of the Yorkshire Dales – a place of contrasts and discoveries, of history and legend.
Places to eat nearby View all
Nearby places to stay
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Nearby places to stay
Wooden Hare
Tucked away in the vast grounds of a very peaceful property, the Wooden Hare is a detached lodge with unrivalled views. A charming two-bedroom wooden lodge which comfortably accommodate...
The Smithy
Surrounded by rolling green countryside between the popular market towns of Leyburn and Bedale, The Smithy is a beautiful barn conversion with bags of charm. The semi-detached cottage -...
The Smithy
Surrounded by rolling green countryside between the popular market towns of Leyburn and Bedale, The Smithy is a beautiful barn conversion with bags of charm. The semi-detached cottage -...
The Mews
Situated in open countryside one and a half mile from Masham to the north with panoramic views from the luxury first floor accommodation. The Mews adjoins the owners Victorian house and...
The Mews
Situated in open countryside one and a half mile from Masham to the north with panoramic views from the luxury first floor accommodation. The Mews adjoins the owners Victorian house and...
Braithwaite Hall Bed & Breakfast
Braithwaite Hall is an impressive 17th-century building set in open farmland with views over the Pennines bordering Wensleydale. Inside are many period features including antique furnis...
The Wensleydale
The historic town of Middleham is a wonderful backdrop for the Wensleydale Hotel, which sits in the main square looking up at the castle. Racehorse breeding is the local passion and you...
Lindale Holiday Park
Countryside lovers will enjoy Lindale Holiday Park, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Along a quiet country lane, its landscaped grounds follow the land’s natural contou...
