National Trust - Studley Royal Park

Studley Royal Park and Fountains Abbey is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Yorkshire. The combination of landscaped 18th-century water gardens and the dramatic ruins of the 12th-century abbey makes it truly unique. The grounds are vast and beautifully maintained, with sweeping views, ornamental lakes, classical statues, and hidden follies that feel like stepping back in time. The abbey ruins are stunning, grandiose, and and atmospheric. You can easily spend hours exploring the stonework and imagining the lives of the monks who once lived there. The surrounding deer park adds even more charm – spotting the deer roaming freely is a highlight in itself, but be careful if it’s the rutting season - now! Facilities are excellent, with a good visitor centre, café, and plenty of walks of varying lengths to suit all abilities. It’s a place that rewards both a leisurely stroll and a full-day adventure. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, landscape design, or simply want a peaceful day in beautiful surroundings, Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey is a must-see. It’s no surprise that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also a National Trust venue so free parking and entry and if you are a member.

Absolutely stunning park to walk around, plus the ruins of the Foundations abbey. I easily spent 4 hours here in awe of the beauty! Dog friendly but must be on lead as many deer and pheasants. Cafe and toilets on two ends of the area.

Scenic landscaped park known for its elegant water gardens and Fountains Abbey, a magnificent ruin in an atmospheric setting. The park is expansive, and while the superb Georgian water gardens are the big attraction, there's plenty more to see. A selection of follies around the water gardens and woodland, working watermill, beautiful Victorian church, and valley of bridges are amongst the other interesting features to look out for while exploring. The trail leading through the woods past some interesting follies involves a bit of a climb, but it's rewarded with an excellent view over the gardens at Anne Boleyn's Seat. The deer park is home to over 300 deer, including red, sika and fallow deer. These animals provide a visual spectacle that the whole family can enjoy. Fountains Abbey, dating back to 1132, features an imposing tower, soaring arches and vaulted ceilings, providing countless photo opportunities. It's a highlight of the park and one of the finest ruined abbeys in the country. The site is well managed by the National Trust, with a large visitor centre, café, gift shop, toilets, ample parking across multiple sites, clear signposting and well surfaced, easily accessible paths. Tickets are £21.00 per adult (£52.50 for a family of 5). It's not cheap, but there's enough here for a full day out so feels like reasonable value. The park is very popular so I'd advise arriving early if you prefer to get ahead of the crowds.

Beautiful as always. Lots of deer(Huge antlers) and pheasants running round. Swans, ducks and waterfowl having fun on the wonderful sun kissed landscaped lakes. Looking forward to our next visit, when we might also take in the gorgeous Fountains Abbey.

A world heritage site. Beautiful surroundings. Smooth paths for the less able bodied and a 'taxi' service up/down the steep parts for anyone with deeper health conditions. Very dog friendly. Cafes located at either end, with toilets or bring a picnic and a couple of chairs and relax. During summer school holidays there are activities for the kids, it's a great place to let them run off energy.