Image shared for Studley Royal Deer Park and Rough Bridge
Park / Green space Circular

Studley Royal Deer Park and Rough Bridge

North Yorkshire

Distance
3.3 mi
Est. time
1h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A parkland circuit through Studley Royal, starting at the Fountains Abbey visitor-centre car park. Follow the bridleway beside the estate drive towards the Obelisk and St Mary's Church, then take the mown path north beside the boundary wall. The route passes the surviving stable block of Studley Royal House, now a private home, before dropping to Rough Bridge. Cross this stone bridge and continue through the northern parkland, past estate cottages and old oak trees. The eastern boundary path leads back to the broad drive and the church.

Allow around an hour and a half. Most of the walking is on grassy park paths and firm bridleways, with a short slope near Rough Bridge and stretches shared with slow estate traffic. Boots help when the grass is wet.

Red, fallow and sika deer roam the park. Watch from a distance, particularly during the October and November rut, and keep dogs on a short lead. The visitor centre has toilets and refreshments. The main visitor-centre parking is free; admission to the abbey and water gardens is separate.

Walk details

Walk type
Circular
Category
Park / Green space
Distance
3.3 mi (5.3 km)
Est. time
1h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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