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What have Monks Ever Done for Us? - A tour of Byland Abbey

Byland Abbey, Byland Abbey, Coxwold, York, North Yorkshire, YO61 4BD

  • 20 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Walk / Tour

A tour of the less well-known areas of Byland abbey, highlighting the innovations and inventions of religious orders.

A guided tour of Byland Abbey with one of our expert guides focusing on the lesser known facts of Byland Abbey.

Timings

Sunday 20 September:
1100

Location & directions

Byland Abbey, Byland Abbey, Coxwold, York, North Yorkshire, YO61 4BD

Directions:
2 miles south of A170, between Thirsk and Helmsley; near Coxwold village. Small, free triangular-shaped car park (room for about 9 cars). Additional parking is available in the lay-bys half a mile to the south towards Coxwold and behind the Abbey Inn.
Contact on day:
Saskia Edwards
Telephone number:
+447990107393

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The site is not fully accessible with uneven ground and steep steps at times. There are no toilets on site, however the site is opposite the Abbey Inn pub, which has toilets guests can use. Guide Dogs are welcome.

Additional information

Byland Abbey was described in the 12th century as one of the shining lights of northern monasticism. Its beginnings were unpromising – it was only after 43 years and numerous moves that the community of Byland found a permanent home. Yet the abbey rose to be one of the largest of the Cistercian order in Britain. The remains of the buildings, particularly the great church with its magnificent west front, are important in the development of northern monastic architecture in the second half of the 12th century.

Max number of people:
25
Estimated duration:
1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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