There's something for everyone in the family to enjoy this summer at the Abbey. We've designed a host of nature and heritage-themed activities to keep adventurers of all ages entertained throughout the holidays, from toddlers to grandpas.
Scroll down to see what's on offer!
This summer, young adventurers can embark on an exciting adventure across the Ampleforth Abbey grounds, with our thoughtfully prepared explorer backpacks – available to borrow for free from the visitor centre.
These backpacks are filled with a variety of tools such as a magnifying glass and binoculars, along with scavenger hunts and challenges to complete in the Abbey grounds, offering an engaging way for children to connect with nature and make the most of the outdoors!
Take a break from the heat of the summer sun and explore the Abbey Church, home to one of the most extensive collections of ‘Mouseman’ furniture in the country. No one really knows exactly how many mice are in the church, but you can learn more and see how many you can find with one of our ‘Mouseman’ trail booklets, available at the visitor centre.
For those looking to learn more about this holy place, we run tours every Thursday and Sunday at 2pm. Explore rarely seen areas, including the Crypt, and learn about the church's many chapels and other unique features.
For curious young visitors, our free visitor centre offers a chance to discover more about the story of Ampleforth Abbey and the daily life of a benedictine monk.
Explore the Abbey’s rich history and heritage, learn about the wildlife found in the surrounding valley, and discover the fascinating architecture and craftsmanship of the Abbey Church.
Families visiting over the summer holidays will find special nature-based children’s trails and scavenger hunts designed to encourage curiosity and exploration - a wonderful way to learn something new during your visit.
Throughout the summer holidays, families visiting Ampleforth Abbey will also find free children’s activities on the lawn. Enjoy a game of caterpillar hoopla, help pollinate the flowers with bean bag toss, or get creative with our nature-inspired soundboard. There's plenty of fun to discover!
Whether enjoying some outdoor play, or simply making the most of the open space families can relax and enjoy quality time together in the beautiful surroundings of the Abbey.
Pause for a bite to eat and refreshments in our oak-panelled Tea Room, where you can discover even more of our famous 'Mouseman' furniture.
From homemade lunches to children’s meals, light bites, delicious cakes, and locally made ice-cream. There's something for all the family. You can even enjoy a drink of our own Ampleforth apple juice and cider, pressed on site from apples grown in the Abbey orchard.
This summer sees the launch of a new way-marked walking trail connecting Ampleforth Abbey with Ampleforth village via scenic countryside pathways stretching across the valley.
Taking around 45 minutes each way, the route offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape, making it perfect for families with older children, walkers, and anyone who is looking to enjoy some time in the North Yorkshire Countryside.
A longer walk can lead you to discover the Abbey’s three lakes, hidden away within the valley of the wider Ampleforth estate. These offer a delightful spot for families with older children to enjoy a countryside walk, and spend time together surrounded by nature.
The lakes can be accessed via a public footpaths from either Ampleforth village or the Abbey grounds.
A short stroll offers the chance to step into the historic orchard, home to over 1,500 trees and more than 50 varieties of apple which naturally ripen between August and January.
The orchard has been part of Abbey life for generations, with the apples used to create Ampleforth’s famous full juice cider and apple juice. At certain times of the year, you can enjoy the opportunity to take some home!
Our first Pick Your Own Apples event of this year will run on Saturday 29 August. This is a free bookable event – just pay for the apples you pick.
North Yorkshire Grand Prix Cycle Race
Sunday 16 August from 9am | Live race screening | Food & drinks | live-painting demonstrations | Free entry for spectators.
Adventures in Hundred Acre Wood
Sunday 30 August 10am, 1pm, 2.30pm | Immersive outdoor theatre experience for children aged 3–6 | Tickets £12
You can support the Abbey in many ways, from making a donation, to volunteering.
