The Cistercian Walk (Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey)
A 7 mile circular walk linking ancient monuments set within the beautiful North York Moors National Park.
The walks start at 10.30 from outside the Black Swan in Helmsley and would normally take about 4 hours steady walking before arriving back in Helmsley. Refreshments and toilet facilities are available at Rievaulx, and Helmsley.
Your adventure starts from the charming Yorkshire market town of Helmsley. This North Yorkshire town is steeped in history with attractions to appeal to all, from a 900 year castle ruin, a 250 year old Walled Garden and a fine selection of quaint tea rooms, this is the perfect place to kick start you’re walking experience. With outstanding panoramic views across areas of ancient woodland, splendid primeval abbeys, and an abundance of wildlife makes for a breath taking experience of seclusion and peacefulness. We head out through the beautiful Duncombe Park estate before joining one of England’s most celebrated national trails, the Cleveland Way, and then onward to Rievaulx Abbey. Dating back to 1131 the monks set to and laid the foundations of what was to become the largest and richest Cistercian house in England.
Start: We meet outside the Black Swan Hotel in Helmsley, parking fees do apply in the town.
Distance: 7 miles (11.2 km)
Difficulty: This is an easy to moderate walk with one small uphill section through woodland as the walk leaves Rievaulx village.
Terrain: Concrete roads through the park and the walk into Rievaulx, bridleway and single tracks over farmland.
Duration: 4-5 hours, including. café stop at Rievaulx Abbey.
Group: This is a private guided walk and we take bookings for between 4 and 6 people.
Price: £30 per person. We require a minimum of four walkers for this event to go ahead.
What you will need;
In order for you to enjoy and take full advantage of the events on offer it is imperative that you look after yourself and turn up with the appropriate kit. We highly recommend suitable walking shoes/boots, proper outdoor clothing for the time of year and a reasonable level of walking fitness. Unfortunately young people under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Safety and the Weather
As the group leader, I am responsible for your safety and will be more attentive to your needs throughout, and may show more caution than individuals might when walking on their own.
II undertake continuous risk assessment, and may take the decision to change or modify walking plans at short notice. This most commonly occurs in bad weather conditions. I do lead walks in all weather, so long as it is safe to do so.
