Discovering Ampleforth Abbey
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- 4 min read
It’s always good to discover new places, so if you’re travelling to York, you might want to take a trip to Ampleforth Abbey, situated in the foothills of the North York Moors National Park, just 19 miles from York.
Ampleforth Abbey is set within 1,200 acres of peaceful countryside, with stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside. It’s a perfect place for those who enjoy being outdoors and there are routes and nature trails around Ampleforth Valley that you can explore on foot or bicycle. You can also visit the Orchard and Cider Mill which is one of the largest commercial orchards in the North of England with more than 1,500 apple trees and 60 varieties of apples.
Ampleforth Abbey has been home to a community of Benedictine monks since 1802 and they extend a warm welcome to visitors and those wanting to stay longer and enjoy a relaxing break from everyday life within these tranquil surroundings.
The sandy coloured limestone buildings make for an impressive sight upon arrival, and include The Alban Roe House and Visitors’ Centre, the Monastery and Monastery West Wing, home to the monks including the retired monks, the Abbey Church and Ampleforth College and grounds. (Please note the college grounds are not open to visitors.)
The Roman Catholic Abbey Church is at the heart of Ampleforth Abbey. And for history and architecture buffs, this Grade 1 Listed Building was built in two phases, 1922 – 24 and then 1958-61. It was designed and built by 20th century architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. However, the history of the monastery goes way back, to the time of King Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries.
In brief, exiled monks from Dieulouard, France, moved into Ampleforth Lodge in 1802. It was the home of Fr. Anselm Bolton; he had been Chaplain to Lady Anne Fairfax at nearby Gilling Castle and she had built the Lodge for him before her death. He gave the lodge over to the monks as their new monastery and in 1899 Pope Leo XIII made Ampleforth an Abbey.
The style of the Abbey Church is a blend of Gothic and modern, with some beautiful features to discover, such as the impressive Triumphal Arch that you can't fail to notice in the Monastic Choir, which is where the monks gather up to six times a day to pray. This magnificent arch rises over the tabernacle and unusual double altar, and frames the beautiful crucifix.
Although you wouldn't describe the Abbey Church as an ornate church, as you explore, you're find statues steeped in history, beautiful stained glass windows; and a number of smaller chapels. A delightful discovery to watch out for are the Mouseman carvings around the church and Visitor’s Centre.
Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thompson is famous for his woodwork and furniture - and the signature ‘mouse’ he carved into the pieces that he made. Robert Thompson was a local joiner and craftsman working in the family business in the nearby village of Kilburn. Robert created many beautiful pieces for the Abbey and became a lifelong friend to Fr. Paul Nevill of Ampleforth.
There is an air of calm and peacefulness all around Ampleforth Abbey and it’s an ideal place to slow down and find time for relaxation and reflection. Visit for just the day, or book in overnight, or a longer break or retreat. The monks are welcoming and will gladly regale you with stories and the history of Ampleforth.
The Ampleforth Abbey Church is open 7 days a week, all-year round. As mentioned, there are several services every day as part of the monastic community’s everyday life, and visitors of any faith, or no faith are welcome to take part, and are also welcome to explore the church or quietly reflect outside of these times.
For anyone wanting to stay overnight, or spend a longer period at Ampleforth, there is fully accessible accommodation across three purpose-built retreat buildings – with single, double and twin rooms, most of which have an en-suite or shared bathroom. All rooms have access to tea and coffee making facilities, or to a kitchenette with a fridge.
Additionally, there’s the newly refurbished group accommodation in Alban Roe House. Guests can also book a full board retreat, which includes a hot and cold selection buffet breakfast and a two-course lunch and supper. Ampleforth can accommodate groups of up to 60 comfortably. Guests also have access to welcoming communal areas across the site, a library, and of course, the beautiful valley.
For all visitors there’s the Visitor Centre, shop and Tea Rooms where you can enjoy delicious, freshly made scones, cakes and sandwiches, and hot meals.
So when you next visit York, this is another fascinating and tranquil place you can enjoy: www.ampleforthabbey.org.uk
For more on the history of Ampleforth Abbey, you can read all about the history and the people associated with it here: https://www.ampleforthabbey.org.uk/monastery/our-history
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