With a range of activities on offer, many schools choose Ampleforth Abbey for their school day trip or residential retreat.

Residential School Stays & Retreats

The retreat experience allows young people to develop confidence to be themselves, understand their gifts and the meaning of their faith in their lives. The gentle, relaxed and fun atmosphere provides the backdrop to make new friendships and strengthen old ones.

Alban Roe House

Ampleforth Abbey welcomes school groups and their teachers for residential stays and retreats throughout the year.

Our dedicated space for groups is within Alban Roe House, situated to the west of the Abbey estate, with magnificent views over the valley. Perfect for both residential trips and day visits, the building features dormitory-style accommodation as well as single en-suite rooms, meeting rooms, activity rooms, a Chapel and a kitchenette.

A large scale renovation of Alban Roe House is nearing completion and we look forward to welcoming school groups in 2024 to experience the new and improved facilities. The renovation provides improved accessibility, modernised bathroom facilities and improved social spaces.

Dormitory Accommodation

From March 2024, we are able to offer newly refurbished group accommodation in Alban Roe House. With a mix of dormitory and en-suite rooms, we can accommodate groups of up to 60 comfortably. 

Alban Roe House Group Accommodation:

  • 7 Dormitories (53 beds)
  • 2 En-suite Leaders Rooms
  • 2 Accessible En-suite Rooms
  • 6 Further Single /Leader En-suite Rooms

Facilities Include:

  • Breakfast, Lunches & Evening Meals Available
  • Higher Education, Primary, Secondary
  • Lounge and activity rooms
  • Lift
  • Abbey tours
  • Visitor Centre
  • Coach Parking
  • Chapel
  • Quiet Reading Room
  • Drying Room
  • Kitchenette for snacks and hot drinks
  • Grounds with lake & walks
  • Swimming Pool

School Day Trips 

We can arrange a bespoke visit for your school including a tour of the Abbey Church and Visitor Centre along with activities in the valley and a choice of lunch.

We also have the option to offer faith and nature-based activities to support your school's visit.

Interested in booking for 2024?

Enquire now by filling in the online enquiry form below.

Make an enquiry

You can also call our friendly team on 01439 766087 or send an email to retreats@ampleforthabbey.org.uk.

School group