Rievaulx Terrace is a grass covered terrace
overlooking Rievaulx Abbey in the North York Moors National Park; it offers a unique
view of the Abbey and nearby village. The Terrace was created in 1758 by Thomas
Duncombe, who also inherited nearby Duncombe Park.
At either end of the terrace sit two mid-19th
century follies – the domed Tuscan temple is thought to be a scaled down
version of the mausoleum at Castle Howard. The floor came from the choir of
Rievaulx Abbey. The Ionic temple was inspired by the Temple of Fortuna Virilis
in Rome. It was intended as a banqueting house and is set up as such today.
Adjacent to the terrace is a woodland area where
you can find a giant chess set and other games. Rievaulx Terrace is managed by
the National Trust and so is free admission for members. Just a short walk down
some steps from the carpark will take you to picturesque Rievaulx Village and
the entrance to the Abbey.
