Jervaulx Abbey

Jervaulx Abbey, in Wensleydale, is one of our smaller ruined abbeys. Originally a Cistercian monastery (like Fountains Abbey, though much more modest) it became renowned for breeding horses (a tradition that still continues in the area around Middleham) and Wensleydale cheese was first made here by the monks, initially from sheep's milk and later from cows' milk. (It is now made mainly at a creamery in Hawes.) The abbey was abandoned at the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII in the 1500s. It became part of the grounds of Jervaulx Hall and remains in private ownership, kept as a romantic ruin.  

It used to have a rather nice tearoom, but that seems to be closed now. Perhaps Covid undermined that operation. It must be very hard to maintain such a significant monument without the support of the National Trust or English Heritage. There was no-one around (apart from a small wooden monk!) and entrance fees are simply paid into an honesty box. Quite pleasant to wander around for half an hour or so, even on a dull, damp day. 

Despite the weather, I had a very enjoyable expedition to Wensleydale. Sometimes just a couple of nights away feels like a longer break.