Dark nights are creeping back in, and whilst that can be a bad thing for some, we are looking forward to all things twinkly. From festive Christmas markets to light trails and more. And Fountains Abbey’s famous Fountains by Floodlight is set to return for its 94th year.
The ruins of the abbey will once again be lit by brilliant white light, offering visitors a rare chance to experience the UK’s largest monastic ruin uniquely.
A long tradition
Fountains by Floodlight took place for the first time back in 1932, and this year you can experience the same enhanced experience alongside a new addition. This year there will be a new rolling six-minute projection show commissioned by the National Trust and created by Illuminos.
The light show will bring the story of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal to life across the West Door of the abbey through light, colour, sound and movement.
You can wander through glowing archways and shadowed paths, enjoying guided tours that reveal the abbey’s history. There will be live choral performances within the surroundings as well as Gregorian chants that will echo from Huby’s Tower, creating a haunting experience.
Once you’ve enjoyed the illuminating spectacle, you can head ot the Mill Yard for seasonal food and drink. You can enjoy a range of street food vendors serving up some tasty treats. What better family day out or date night can you think of?
Milly Hodgson, Visitor Experience Officer, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal said: “For generations, Fountains by Floodlight has offered visitors a way to experience the abbey after dark. This year, we’re delighted to introduce a new projection show that adds another layer to the experience, bringing the stories of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal to life in an artistic, engaging and immersive way.
“Alongside the much-loved floodlit ruins, these projections provide a new feature that enhances the evening experience while celebrating the beauty and history of this special place.”
Rob Vale, from Illuminos, said: “We were delighted to be invited to Fountains Abbey to create a new artwork, using the extraordinary ruins to tell their own story. As foliage and water, swans and parasols emerge across the archway, we hope that people are inspired to learn more about this remarkable space.”
Justin Scully, General Manager, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, said: “Over 94 years, Fountains by Floodlight has evolved into a much-loved tradition, offering visitors the chance to experience the ruins of Fountains Abbey in a completely different way.
“Seeing the ruins illuminated against the night sky remains just as magical today as it was for those visitors in 1932 and while the floodlit ruins remain at the heart of the experience, these new projections offer visitors another way to connect with the history and beauty of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal.”
Fountains by Floodlight takes place on selected evenings throughout October and entry costs £12 for adults and £6 for childern with under 5s getting in free, although you still need to book.
You can visit between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM. And, remember that the floodlights are switched off at 9:00 PM. Dates remaining are:
- Friday 23 & Saturday 24 October 2026
- Thursday 29 & Friday 30 October 2026
Find out more about Fountains by Floodlight here.
Read More: 10 Of The Best Things To Do In Yorkshire This November
Feature Image Credit: J Shepherd
