History of Fountains Abbey

The Abbey, Britain''s largest monastic ruin, was founded in 1132 by 13 Benedictine monks seeking a simpler life. Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539 by Henry VIII, the Abbey buildings and over 500 acres (202ha) of land were sold by the Crown to Sir Richard Gresham. The property was passed down through several generations of Sir Richard''s family, finally being sold to Stephen Proctor who built Fountains Hall, probably between 1598 and 1604.

Today’s Attraction

Today, this magnificent attraction is recognised as a World Heritage Site. Join Alan Whitworth on this fascinating photographic journey to explore Fountains Abbey Through Time and its water features, ornamental temples, follies and magnificent vistas. Even those familiar with the area will find much to marvel at within these pages, and hopefully it will encourage many more people to visit this unique and historic part of Yorkshire.