The weather could have been better, as it was overcast and quite cold for July, and there was a bit of rain. Ampleforth Abbey is known for its school (Ampleforth College) and its cider, produced from the apples grown in the Abbey orchard. We had become quite keen on the cider, and so that it what inspired us to visit the Abbey - to buy some of the cider (unobtainable where we live!) and also to try the tearoom and the renowned cider apple cake!
When we arrived it was shortly after 10am, and the shop did not open until 10:30. We seemed to be the only people around, and our footsteps echoed in the hallway. We went outside for a walk and a look round the grounds, which are beautiful, giving excellent views of the surrounding countryside. I would have loved to have gone to school in a place like this!
We had a nice meal in the Abbey Tearoom - Wensleydale cheese on wholemeal bread with salad and crisps, followed by Father Rainer's Apple Cake - which was superb -moist and tangy. After buying our cider we returned to Helmsley. The weather could have been better but I would love to go there again!
