Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

A World Heritage Site

Found near Ripon, World Heritage site Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal has long been a place of enchantment for those who wander the grounds. With beautifully designed water-gardens, follies and statues, it’s a place of peace, tranquillity and drama. As you explore the garden and round the corner of the mirrored ponds, the greatest folly of all is revealed – the ancient ruins of Fountains Abbey.

Folly! in the water garden
Surprising, intriguing and elegant, the gardens have always been a source of delight for visitors, and 2018 is going to be no exception. Folly! is making a comeback – and it’s bigger than ever for its third year.

Dotted with follies, whimsical, exotic structures designed to catch the eye and add intrigue to the landscape, from April – November, four new striking and surprising artworks will appear in the garden. Designed by architects and artists, they will playfully re-imagine Studley Royal’s lost follies which were left to ruin.

If you can’t wait ’til April, join in the Gardens of Light celebrations in February 2018 – a worldwide celebration of the wonder of gardens. Pack a torch and come for an after dark adventure through these captivating gardens to see the statues and follies lit up, glowing bright against the night sky.

What else is going on?
Learn the stories behind the abbey walls in a guided tour with one of the expert guides. Rich but turbulent, the centuries of history are brought to back to life – a great way to learn more about the site. With fantastic nature walks running throughout the year, deer watch walks and holiday activities for all the family, there’s lots on to keep you entertained.

Make sure to pack your boots for a lovely long walk whatever the season, taking in wonderful views and vistas throughout the estate, woodland pathways, valley strolls and the medieval deer park.