Abbeys, Ruins & Reformation
A 6-hour private driven tour from York through ruined abbeys, peaceful villages, dramatic viewpoints and the stories that shaped Yorkshire’s religious past.
Sacred Yorkshire without the coach trip
Abbey ruins, village character and Reformation history
This is a private driven tour for guests who want ruined abbeys, quiet Yorkshire villages, dramatic viewpoints and the story of how religious power shaped the county.
Travel from York with Kes as your driver-guide on a 6-hour route including York Minster context, Byland Abbey, Coxwold, Kilburn White Horse, Rievaulx Abbey, Helmsley and Clifford’s Tower.
The price is per private tour, not per person, for up to 4 guests. Breaks for lunch, comfort stops and photos are built into the day.
What you will see
Ruins, villages and historic Yorkshire views
A compact private tour focused on the places and stories behind medieval faith, monastic power and the Reformation in Yorkshire.
Byland Abbey
Atmospheric medieval abbey ruins with scale, silence and one of Yorkshire’s strongest monastic stories.
Rievaulx Abbey
One of England’s great abbey ruins, set in a secluded valley and closely tied to the story of the Dissolution.
Coxwold, Kilburn & Helmsley
Village streets, the Kilburn White Horse, Helmsley market town and a return to York via Clifford’s Tower.
Common questions
Before you book
How much is Abbeys, Ruins & Reformation?
It is £295 per private tour, not per person, for up to 4 guests.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours from York.
Where does the tour go?
The standard route includes York Minster context, Byland Abbey, Coxwold, Kilburn White Horse, Rievaulx Abbey, Helmsley and Clifford’s Tower.
Are abbey admission tickets included?
No. Entry fees, food and drink are not included unless clearly stated.
Where does the tour start?
The standard meeting point is Cross Keys, Goodramgate, York. If another York-area pick-up point is preferable, please contact Highwayman Tours before your tour so this can be arranged where possible.
Book your private abbeys tour
Abbeys, Ruins & Reformation
Use the secure booking section directly below to check availability and book this private driven tour from York.
Email: keswebster@highwaymantours.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +447345588905
Open 10AM - Midnight
Set the Tone Before You Travel
Add a little extra atmosphere before your Abbeys, Ruins & Reformation tour with this BBC Sounds listen.
Open on BBC Sounds