Helmsley to Rievaulx

[Tinkerbell]

Should you find yourselves in North Yorkshire (Helmsley area to be precise), then the walk through to Rievaulx is well worth doing - 2.5 to 3 miles.

Well signposted, it leads up from Helmsley past the walled garden and onwards (slight hill and through the odd field with farm animals) with wonderful views back to the castle and town on the left. Commencing onwards, skirting woods, leading down and upwards on steps and through similar areas of woodland and countryside, with stunning views on the way. The path eventually emerges onto the road to Rievaulx; some little road walking but some off the road on a parallel path.

Those with children need to take extra care, and you need to have some degree of fitness to cater for the inclines, descents and steps (although we did meet an elderly lady who was tackling it with no qualms); the animals did not put us off and the sight of Rievaulx Abbey across the fields as we approached the village was something to behold, as it sits in a saucer surrounded by wooded hills. A little mist adds to the enchantment, so the weather doesn't have to be sunny. English Heritage look after the site, where there is a cafe and toilets and if you are lucky on the day - wine tasting. The reverse walk is just as pleasurable.

Hope anyone doing this walk will enjoy it as much as we did.

Tinkerbell

[Meta menardi]

Thanks, I will try that. Pretty close, and I love Rievaulx.

[snowdrop]

Thanks Tinkerbell. I really enjoyed your wonderful description. Lucky you.

[Duke of York]

I'm sure I did this walk when I was at secondary school on a trip as we started at Hemsley Castle and walked to Rievaulx Abbey.

If only I actually remember anything about it apart from the fact I did it

[ChrisJB]

Originally Posted by Meta menardi

Thanks, I will try that. Pretty close, and I love Rievaulx.

I love Rievaulx too. In fact, I'd say it is possibly my favourite English Heritage site. And, as Helmsley is such a good ol' Yorkshire town, this sounds a right good stroll.

Regards, Chris

[foxy mars]

A lovely walk, part of the famous Cleveland Way. You could get the Moors Bus ser. M8 back to Helmsley, if the kids are a little tired. I think the bus runs only on Sundays & BH in the Summer months.