Easby Abbey

Easby Abbey

Discover the Peaceful Beauty of Easby Abbey – A Hidden Gem in Richmond, North Yorkshire

If you're looking for a peaceful day out with beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and space to unwind, Easby Abbey near Richmond, North Yorkshire ticks all the boxes. Set beside the River Swale, this stunning English Heritage site is perfect for gentle family walks, photography, picnics, and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

We visit Easby Abbey regularly—it’s one of those places that always leaves you feeling refreshed and calm.

How to Get to Easby Abbey

Easby Abbey is just a stone’s throw from the market town of Richmond, in the heart of North Yorkshire. There are two main ways to get there:

🚗 By Car:

You can drive directly to the abbey and park at Easby, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 7EU. There’s a small car park right next to the ruins. It’s convenient, but it can fill up quickly on sunny days or weekends.

🚶‍♂️ Our Favourite Way – Walk from Richmond:

We highly recommend parking in Richmond and taking the easy riverside walk to Easby Abbey. It’s around a 1-mile walk each way, mostly flat, and perfect for all ages. The path follows the River Swale, offering beautiful views and a gentle breeze. It’s one of the nicest short walks in the area—and builds the anticipation as the ruins come into view!

What’s at Easby Abbey?

Even in ruins, Easby Abbey is breathtaking. Founded in the 1150s, it's one of the best-preserved Premonstratensian monasteries in the country—this lesser-known order of "white canons" lived quiet lives of work, prayer, and community service.

You’ll find:

  • The impressive refectory where the canons dined

  • The old gatehouse, which still stands tall

  • Remains of the canons’ dormitory

  • A peaceful church that’s still in use today, home to some incredible 13th-century wall paintings—rare and worth seeing up close

The whole site is open and free to explore. Children will love running around and discovering hidden corners, and it’s a dream for photographers.

Why We Love Visiting Easby Abbey

One of our favourite things to do is bring a picnic. The grassy banks around the abbey make the perfect lunch spot. There’s plenty of space to spread out a blanket and watch the world go by while birds sing in the trees and the river flows nearby. It's the kind of peaceful moment you just can’t rush.

You’ll often spot other walkers, dog owners, or local families doing the same. It’s calm, safe, and always leaves us smiling.

⭐ Top Reasons to Visit Easby Abbey

  • ✅ Free to visit – perfect for budget-friendly days out

  • ✅ Peaceful setting by the River Swale

  • ✅ Easy family-friendly walk from Richmond

  • ✅ Great for history lovers, photographers, and picnic fans

  • ✅ Close to Richmond Castle and the Yorkshire Dales

  • ✅ Dog-friendly (on lead)

📍 Easby Abbey at a Glance

  • Location: Easby, Richmond, DL10 7EU

  • Type: English Heritage site (free access)

  • Best time to visit: Spring through autumn, especially on dry days

  • Walk length: ~1 mile from Richmond

  • Facilities: No toilets or café, so come prepared (and bring snacks!)

🌿 Final Thoughts

Easby Abbey is one of those quiet treasures that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the moment. Whether you’re exploring the ruins, having a riverside picnic, or simply enjoying a walk through nature, this spot offers a slice of serenity in the heart of North Yorkshire.

It’s a reminder that sometimes the best places are the ones without queues, gift shops, or big crowds—just history, beauty, and a sense of peace.

So next time you're near Richmond, lace up your walking boots, pack a flask, and go discover Easby Abbey. You won’t regret it.