Ampleforth Abbey

Ampleforth Abbey is a working Benedictine monastery near the village of Ampleforth in North Yorkshire, on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. It sits about a mile east of the village and belongs to the English Benedictine Congregation. Ampleforth College, the monks' school, stands beside it. For visitors, the main draw is the abbey church, which is open to everyone every day, free of charge.

What is the story behind the abbey?

The community traces its line back to the monks of medieval Westminster Abbey. That thread survived the Reformation through Sigebert Buckley, the last living Westminster monk, who passed it on. As of 2024 the monastery has 41 monks. Cardinal Basil Hume, later Archbishop of Westminster, served his novitiate here.

What will you see?

The highlight is the abbey church by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the architect behind Battersea Power Station and the classic red telephone box. It was built in two stages. The western end, with the high altar, dates from 1922 to 1924. The second stage added the central tower, transepts and a new nave between 1958 and 1961, finished after Scott died in 1960.

Historic England lists the church at Grade I, the top category. It was upgraded in 2016, together with St Charles Borromeo in Hull. The listing covers the church alone; the attached monastery and school buildings are not part of it. Older publications and some websites still show Grade II, but those predate the change.

Alban Roe House on the grounds holds a visitor centre, tea room and shop. The valley around the abbey suits easy walks and cycling.

How should you visit, and when?

The abbey church is open seven days a week all year. Visitors can join the daily prayer and Mass or simply sit in quiet. There is no entry charge to the site. This is a living monastery, so keep voices low during services and take photographs in a way that does not disturb people praying.

Visitor centre and tea room hours change with the season. In spring and summer it generally opens daily from 10am to 5pm; in autumn and winter it opens fewer days and shorter hours. Check the abbey website for current times before you set off.

Can you stay overnight?

Yes. The abbey has more than 45 places for guests in single and double rooms. Many guided retreats are also open to non-residents, so you can come for a single day. Book through the hospitality team at [email protected] or on 01439 766087. Reception is on 01439 766099.

How do you get there?

From London, take a train from King's Cross to York, then the Transdev 31X bus to Ampleforth. Coach groups should contact the abbey in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an admission fee? No. Entry to the grounds and the church is free.

Who designed the church? Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. The western part was built in 1922-24, and the rest in 1958-61 after his death.

Can I attend a service? Yes. Guests are welcome at the daily prayer and Mass with no obligation.

Is this the same as Byland Abbey? No. Byland Abbey is a separate ruined medieval Cistercian site nearby. Ampleforth is an active monastery with a twentieth-century church.