Ampleforth Abbey
North Yorks Art School are thrilled to be collaborating with Ampleforth Abbey on a series of new week-long masterclasses led by artists and practitioners of quality and expertise.
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Ampleforth Abbey, set in the scenic Howardian Hills of North Yorkshire, is a historic Benedictine monastery known for its peaceful beauty and deep spiritual heritage. Founded over 200 years ago, the Abbey continues to be a vibrant community where monks live, work, and pray, upholding the centuries-old traditions of St. Benedict.
Surrounded by rolling countryside, woodlands, and serene lakes, Ampleforth offers visitors a tranquil escape from modern life, making it a perfect setting for artistic inspiration. In addition to its role as a spiritual centre, Ampleforth is renowned for its hospitality, welcoming guests from all backgrounds to explore its grounds, participate in retreats, or simply enjoy the Abbey’s serene ambiance.
The Abbey’s legacy of craftsmanship and dedication to education is reflected in the carefully preserved architecture and the onsite Ampleforth College, where students and visitors alike experience the Benedictine values of balance, community, and stewardship.
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North Yorks Art School are pleased to be working in partnership with Ampleforth Abbey to deliver a series of short courses and masterclasses not available at any of our current venues. As well as attending a four or five-day course, you also have the option to stay in the grounds of Ampleforth Abbey.
Take a look at what we're offering
Our ambition is to suit our surroundings and offer inspiring, quality retreats.
Securing your place on a course
North Yorks Art School retreats are tailored to suit your preferences, with two flexible options to choose from. See below for details.
Option One:
Course Only
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This option is perfect for those who prefer to arrange their own accommodation while attending the course, which includes:
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Comprehensive tuition from an expert instructor.
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All necessary materials, tools, and resources.
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Lunch and refreshments each day, keeping you energised and focused.
With this choice, participants are free to explore and book nearby accommodation that suits their needs, offering flexibility and the chance to enjoy the beautiful surrounding area at their leisure.
Option 2:
Course + All-Inclusive Stay at Ampleforth Abbey
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For a truly immersive experience, choose our course with all-inclusive accommodation. This package includes everything from the days-long course as well as a 4 or 5 night stay at the historic Ampleforth Abbey.
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Guests staying at the Abbey enjoy:
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Comfortable accommodations within the tranquil and inspiring Abbey grounds.
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All meals provided, offering delicious and nourishing cuisine throughout your stay.
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The opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful and contemplative atmosphere of this retreat.
By choosing this option, you can focus entirely on your creative journey, leaving the details of accommodation and meals to us.
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There are a number of room options available and you also have the option to bring along someone not attending the course for a small additional fee.
How to Find Us
bookaclass.org events in Ampleforth are located at:
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AMPLEFORTH ABBEY
ALBAN ROE HOUSE
YORK
YO62 4EN
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Road
Ampleforth Abbey is a 45 minute drive from the centre of York, 50 minutes from Harrogate and 25 minutes from Thirsk by car. Please note, we have a 10mph speed limit on site and we ask that drivers adhere to the speed restriction to ensure the safety to all pedestrians on site.
Once you arrive, please follow the green 'Visitor Parking' signs which will take to the car park at Alban Roe House Visitor Centre.
Rail
Trains run regularly from King's Cross, London to York. The journey takes approximately two hours and trains run at half hourly intervals during the day. Times are available on the National Rail website.
Bus
Reliance Buses, service 31X, provide a bus service from York to Ampleforth.