Roche Abbey

Roche Abbey was founded in 1147 by Richard De Bully and Richard FitzTurgis and lies on either side of the stream which divided their lands.

Its name derives from the limestone outcrops which characterise the site. At the suppression of the monasteries, the property of Roche Abbey was valued at £224 2s 5d. In 1554 the abbey was surrendered to the crown.

Following the expulsion of the Cistercian abbot and monks, the buildings were plundered by local people. Thomas Vavasour and William Ramsden were granted the site and buildings in 1554. Subsequently they passed into the hand of Robert Sauderson and by inheritance to Thomas Lumley, 3rd Earl of Scarbrough in 1723.

Capability Brown was responsible for landscaping the grounds in 1774. The 10th Earl placed the ruins into the care of the Ministry of Works in 1921 and they are now cared for by the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission.

The access road to the abbey lies about 1.5 miles beyond Maltby, along Blyth Road. The site has a car and coach park, toilets and refreshments.

For opening hours and admission prices, please see the Roche Abbey page on the English Heritage website.

How to find it

Email: customers@english-heritage.org.uk

Telephone: 01709 812739 

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