With all this great weather we’ve been having there’s no need to stay cooped up indoors. Instead, why not make the most of the glorious summer by visiting Yorkshire castles, abbeys and gardens? Here are some that we’re particularly fond of:
RHS Harlow Carr, Harrogate – stunning 58-acre gardens located in the spa town of Harrogate, close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The brilliant array of beautiful, themed gardens includes the Scented Garden, populated and fragranced by roses, and a contemporary garden designed by BBC gardener, Diarmuid Gavin.
Mount Grace Priory, Northallerton – formerly a British charterhouse, where monks lived in solitude, Mount Grace Priory provides an insight into what life was like for medieval monks. The charterhouse is in excellent condition, and the surrounding grounds are beautiful.
Ripley Castle, near Harrogate – a beautiful castle located 3 miles from Harrogate, Ripley Castle has been home to the Ingilby family for an impressive 700 years! Take a tour around the house and marvel at its grandeur, and explore the beautifully landscaped grounds and walled gardens.
Helmsley Castle, Helmsley – dating back 900 years and towering over the idyllic market town of Helmsley, Helmsley Castle is a great place to visit to learn all about the area’s rich history. Explore the Castle’s internal exhibition and various events throughout the year.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Ripon – a World Heritage Site comprising 800 acres of beautiful grounds and the magnificent remains of the 12th century Abbey, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal can’t fail to impress you. There’s also a Victorian Gothic church, a deer park and the revered Georgian Water Gardens.
Rievaulx Abbey, near Helmsley – this is a truly awe-inspiring structure which lies in a beautiful valley amidst stunning grounds. The Abbey remains are some of the most complete in northern England and the atmosphere is one of peace and tranquillity.
Ampleforth Abbey, Grounds & Shop, Ampleforth – the current Abbey was built between 1924 and 1961, replacing its 19th century predecessor. The lovely grounds offer some peaceful walks, and there is a shop where you can purchase Monastic alcoholic produce.
Skipton Castle, Skipton – this medieval castle dates back over 900 years and is one of the country’s best preserved castles of its era, making it a great place to visit to brush up on your medieval knowledge. The castle’s structure is very impressive, and provides a fascinating insight into the need for strong defences to provide protection from invasion 900 years ago.
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