Abbeys, Ruins and Reformation

A private driven tour from York exploring Yorkshire’s ruined abbeys, historic villages and Reformation stories.

Prices From £245.00

Location: 10 Priory Wood Way
Telephone:
+447345 588905 Call Us
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About Us

Explore Yorkshire’s ruined abbeys, historic villages and Reformation stories on a private driven tour from York.

Abbeys, Ruins & Reformation is a relaxed private day out through some of Yorkshire’s most atmospheric historic sites, including Byland Abbey, Rievaulx Abbey, Coxwold, Helmsley, the Kilburn White Horse and Clifford’s Tower.

Travel in comfort with your own local driver-guide and enjoy a flexible route through abbey ruins, market towns, countryside views and places shaped by faith, power and the dramatic changes of the Reformation.

This tour is ideal for visitors who want to go beyond York without hiring a car, joining a coach tour or rushing between stops. Many sites can be enjoyed from the exterior, with optional paid entry depending on the attraction, season and visitor preference.

Bookings can be made directly through the Highwayman Tours website, with selected experiences also available through Airbnb. Visitors are welcome to read our excellent Google and Airbnb reviews before booking.

Website: www.highwaymantours.com

Open 10AM - Midnight.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the tour?

Abbeys, Ruins & Reformation is a 6-hour private driven tour from York, with around 2 hours of travel time across the route.

How many people can join?

This is a private tour for up to four passengers

Where does the tour start?

Pick-up is from York at an agreed location. This can include hotels, guest houses, holiday lets, Airbnb accommodation, York railway station, car parks or another suitable meeting point.
Some city centre streets have access restrictions, so the exact pick-up point may be adjusted to a nearby safe and convenient place. If you are staying outside York, please contact Highwayman Tours before booking.

Which places are included?

The route includes York Minster, Byland Abbey, Coxwold, the Kilburn White Horse, Rievaulx Abbey, Helmsley and Clifford’s Tower.

Are attraction entry fees included?

Entry fees are not included. Many sites can be enjoyed from the exterior, and some places may be free to visit. Others may require admission depending on the attraction, season, visitor type and how tickets are booked.

Do we have to go inside every attraction?

No. The tour is flexible. Some guests prefer exterior views, photos, short walks and stories from the route, while others may choose to go inside selected sites.

Is this a guided walking tour?

No. This is a private driven tour from York, with stops along the way. There will be time to step out, explore, take photos and hear the stories behind the places visited.
Is the tour suitable in bad weather?

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?

Yes. The route works well in most weather, although some stops are outdoors. Please dress for the Yorkshire weather and wear suitable footwear.

Can the route be adapted?

Yes, where time and opening conditions allow. Highwayman Tours specialises in flexible private driven tours, so the day can be adjusted to suit your interests.

Where can I book?

Bookings can be made directly through the Highwayman Tours website, with selected experiences also available through Airbnb. Visitors are welcome to read our excellent Google and Airbnb reviews before booking.

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