Step inside Ampleforth Abbey Church for a guided tour revealing hidden crypts and chapel stories. Finish with a hearty meal in the Tea Room, a perfect day trip from York.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for most visitors with reasonable mobility. Stairs required to access the Crypt.
Wildlife
History
Ampleforth Abbey was founded in 1802, and its church rebuilt in the 19th century, reflecting the period’s Gothic Revival style.
Conservation
The Abbey actively maintains the grounds and buildings with sustainable practices to protect this historic site for future generations.
Ampleforth Abbey
Step inside Ampleforth Abbey Church for a guided tour revealing hidden crypts and chapel stories. Finish with a hearty meal in the Tea Room, a perfect day trip from York.
Ampleforth Abbey is a historic destination near York, England, offering a range of visitor experiences set around its church, grounds, and orchard. Visitors can book relaxed visits to the Tearoom Booking to enjoy homemade treats in a tranquil setting. The Afternoon Tea experience serves freshly made sandwiches, homemade cakes, and scones with cream and jam alongside Yorkshire Tea or filter coffee, set against Mouseman wooden panelling and views of the Ampleforth valley.
The Abbey Church Tour guides guests through the church’s architecture and history, including access to areas such as the Crypt and chapels. After a tour, visitors can use the Visitor Centre, shop at the Abbey Shop, and return to the Tea Room for home-cooked meals in a picturesque atmosphere.
Ampleforth’s historic orchard features approximately 1,500 apple trees and more than 60 varieties. The Pick Your Own Apples experience lets visitors collect fruit and observe traditional pressing of apple juice and cider at the Cider Mill. These outdoor activities highlight seasonal harvests and hands-on learning about orchard heritage.
For night-sky enthusiasts, the Astro Photography Workshop led by experienced astro-photographer Steve Bell offers a talk, refreshments, and practical low-light photography instruction during an outdoor session. Each experience is bookable and presented as a distinct activity for visitors to plan around opening times. Ampleforth Abbey combines food, heritage, landscape, and specialist workshops to create memorable day visits near York.
Booking information, opening hours, and ticket details are available through the Visitor Centre and the Abbey's published visitor information. Please check locally.
Experiences
5
Distinct bookable activities
Orchard Trees
1,500
Over 60 apple varieties
Workshops
Astro Photography
Led by Steve Bell
Tea Room
Afternoon Tea
Fresh sandwiches and homemade cakes
Reserve Afternoon Tea, book an Abbey Church Tour, pick apples in the orchard, or join the Astro Photography Workshop today.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at the Visitor Centre 10 minutes before your tour to ensure a smooth start.
Stairs Required for Crypt
Access to the Crypt involves stairs, so be prepared if mobility is a concern.
Accessibility Options
The Abbey Church and Visitor Centre are ramp accessible; contact ahead to discuss any special needs.
Parking Availability
Public and disabled parking is available near the church and Visitor Centre for convenience.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for navigating the Abbey grounds and the interior including stairs.
Light Jacket or Layer
Spring days can be cool, so layers help maintain comfort during indoor and outdoor segments.
spring
Umbrella or Raincoat
Autumn rains are common, and outerwear keeps you dry moving between the Visitor Centre and church.
fall
Camera or Smartphone
Capture intricate architectural details and the peaceful surroundings of Ampleforth Abbey.