Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

In Brief.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden is a single National Trust property containing two connected but thematically different sites.  The Water Gardens provide striking vistas from a variety of angles, and incorporate views of the much earlier abbey.  The abbey is a ruin, but one that is complete enough to evoke the community that worked and worshipped there.

The Water Gardens

What's Here?

It would certainly be possible to spend a full day exploring this property, as in addition to the Abbey and Water Gardens, there are two valley walks, a dear park and a country house to explore.

The monastery may be ruined, but it is still imposing.

Tours are available with different emphases; I joined a 90-minute guided tour of the Abbey and Water Gardens. The main entrance is nearer to the Abbey than the gardens, so the tour first outlines the history and ways of life associated with the Abbey, which was founded in 1132 and eventually disbanded around 400 years later as a result of the reformation. As the church and the associated monastery are ruined, it was helpful to have a guide to bring the people, politics and practicalities of the institution to life.

The cellarium (storehouse)

A visit can then proceed from then Abbey down the valley to the 18th Century Water Garden, which comes into view incrementally; it was designed to provide a variety of teaser views before a final reveal. The gardens themselves are pleasant to wander around, with various planned views, auxiliary buildings and statues. Paths allow views to be taken in from both sides of the valley, and a cafe at the far end of the gardens provides welcome refreshments before some more exploring.

Practicalities.

Distance from Manchester Town Hall: 85 miles

Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Price: $$$

Parking: Parking is included.

Food and Drink: There are cafes at different parts of the site.

Retail Therapy: There is a larger than average national trust gift and plant shop, so gift food and drink, books, cards, bags, hats, ...

Child Friendly: There is an extensive adventure play area near the Westgate.

Toilets: There are toilets near the cafes.

Do it justice in: 4 hours

Inside-Outside: 10:90





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