Ampleforth Abbey

Ampleforth is a living monastery rather than a ruin: a community of Benedictine monks founded in 1802 by exiles from the French Revolution, alongside a well-known school. Visitors are welcome at the abbey church, the visitor centre and the tea room, and the orchards produce Ampleforth cider and apple brandy. The valley setting below the Hambleton Hills is beautiful and the monks' sung services are open to all.