Ampleforth Abbey Walking Trail
Ampleforth Abbey Walking Trail via Gilling Castle – A Scenic North York Moors Walk
Explore the Ampleforth Abbey walking trail via Gilling Castle, a peaceful countryside route through rolling hills, woodland, and historic Yorkshire landmarks. This scenic walk links the tranquil grounds of Ampleforth Abbey with the grandeur of Gilling Castle, offering stunning views and a true taste of North York Moors heritage.
Ampleforth Walking Trail
Ampleforth Abbey Walking Trail via Gilling Castle – A Scenic North York Moors Walk
The Ampleforth Abbey walking trail is a serene and scenic route located in the North York Moors, surrounding the historic Ampleforth Abbey. The trail offers visitors a peaceful journey through lush woodlands, open fields, and rolling hills, with stunning views of the abbey and its picturesque surroundings.
About Ampleforth Abbey & Gilling Castle
The Ampleforth Abbey walking trail via Gilling Castle offers walkers a unique combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue in the heart of the North York Moors. Starting at the serene grounds of Ampleforth Abbey, visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this Benedictine monastery, including its beautiful gardens, ancient buildings, and quiet paths. The trail then winds through rolling farmland, woodland, and picturesque countryside, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the scenic landscapes that Yorkshire is famous for.
Along the route, walkers reach Gilling Castle, a striking historic manor with roots dating back to the 15th century. The castle’s impressive architecture and surrounding grounds provide a fascinating glimpse into Yorkshire’s rich heritage. The walk offers a mix of cultural landmarks and natural scenery, making it ideal for those who want to combine gentle exercise with history and photography. Whether you’re exploring for a few hours or a full day, the Ampleforth Abbey to Gilling Castle trail is a rewarding journey through the beauty and history of the North York Moors.
1. Start at Gilling Church
Begin the walk at either Gilling Church or perhaps the Fairfax Arms Country Inn. Either way, walk towards the crossroads at Fairfax Arms and turn left along Pottergate.
2. Follow Pottergate
Keep following Pottergate beyond the village hall, with the treelined bank on your left and views of Ampleforth Abbey on the right. Eventually you will reach Autism Plus on your right hand side. Keep following the lane until you reach and entrance to Yearsley Woods.
3. Head Into Yearsley Woods
When you reach Yearsley Woods, you will see a barrier to prevent vehicles accessing. Walk around the left hand side and keep following this track without turning off. However, you might want to take a look at the large lake on your right hand side.
4. Follow Trail through Yearsley Woods
Keep following the same path through Yearsley Woods, never turning off. The path will eventually take you up our one hill per walk. At the top you will reach a junction. At the junction, simply turn left.
5. Follow ‘The Avenue’
Once you have turned left at the top of the hill, it is just a short walk to another gate that you pass through. Beyond the gate is a split in the route. Here we need to turn right and this takes us to the outer tip of The Avenue. This is a long very straight path all the way to Gilling Castle.
6. Walk to Gilling Castle
Once you reach the gate to Gilling Castle that was once a school and manor house, go through the gate and follow the drive all the way to the castle. A golf course can be found on your right, with the castle in front of you. When you reach the castle, turn left to walk in front of the building and keep following the drive.
7. Walk By Gilling Castle
Walk beside the frontage of Gilling Castle. As you walk further and downhill, you will see a gate on your left at the bend in the road. Go through this gate and keep walking downhill until you reach Pottergate where you were before.
8. Follow the Lane to Ampleforth Abbey
At the foot of the hill, turn left on Pottergate and it is just a short stroll to the junction for Ampleforth Abbey. At this junction, turn right to take the road to the Abbey. Keep following this over the beck, along side the playing fields and up to the abbey itself.
9. Follow the Path to ‘The Windmill” (Abbey Tearooms)
Once you reach the abbey, you will see a path to the left that is lit by Victorian looking street lighting. Follow this route until you reach The Windmill, the abbey tearooms.
10. Follow Lane to Pottergate
At The Windmill or the abbey tearooms, you will see a crossroads. Here we turn left and follow this route all the way back to Pottergate once again. Once you have reached Pottergate, turn left and this will take you back to Gilling East where you started.
Useful Links
Ampleforth Abbey – Official Site – Information about the abbey, its history, visitor access, and events.
Ampleforth College – Explore the historic college adjacent to the abbey and its grounds.
Gilling Castle – English Heritage – Visitor information, opening times, and history of this 15th-century manor.
Visit Ryedale – Local tourism guide covering attractions, walks, and accommodations in and around Ampleforth and Gilling East.
North York Moors National Park – Walks – Explore other walking routes in the North York Moors, including trails near Ampleforth.
Ampleforth Village Website – Community information, local services, and events.
Gilling East Village Information – Local history, amenities, and visitor information for the village.
Traveline Yorkshire – Public transport options and timetables to Ampleforth, Gilling East, and surrounding areas.
Explore Ryedale Countryside – Discover nearby parks, walking routes, and points of interest in the Ryedale district.
