Rievaulx Abbey

Another weekend, another day out for the Family Winter. I've never been to Rievaulx before; when I was growing up in E Lancs, it was just a bit too far for us to go for a day out (at least, with my dad's driving it was) although we went to Fountains Abbey many times. For those of you who don't know, its a former Cistercian Abbey from the 12th century that fell into ruin following Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries in the 1530s.

Anyway, we took advantage of the last day of nice weather due for a while to visit and it was well worth it. A very nice drive there - Sutton Bank, not the sort of hill you ever want to walk up - and an even nicer one back. Rievaulx is in a lovely spot, not quite as as spectacular as Fountains, but v peaceful and not quite as touristy as its near neighbour (ie it was much quieter).


Jacob and Sam had a whale of a time clambering over the ruins and rolling down the grassy banks, Sam especially loved walking round - he's getting to be quite a tireless walker and didn't need to go in the pram at all. Jacob spent a lot of time accosting strangers and showing them his watch.


The long range forecast isn't looking too promising at the moment, but with any luck we can have another trip out next weekend. I'm thinking maybe Brimham Rocks, another childhood summer haunt.