Rievaulx Abbey

This summer, Abelard and I (sometimes joined by Abelard’s mum) have been gallivanting around the country looking at Abbeys, Priorys and churches in the hope of discovering another little cache of medieval tiles.

For those of you that have never been, Rievaulx is absolutely spectacular. It’s set at the bottom of a valley and is surrounded by trees and water. The first thing you see (if you’re lucky enough to go when it’s sunny) is the light illuminating the white stone arches as they rise out of the lush greenery and it is truly breathtaking. There are not that many medieval tiles actually in situ, but those that are there are amazing. The guide book says that there are a few tiles in the south transept, but my favourites were in the nave. These were encaustic, with a simple geometric design, surrounded by writing (once I work out how to put up photos, a photo of them will be going up!). When we went, there had been some bad flooding in the area, which had washed out the usual visitor centre, so English Heritage were operating out of a temporary hut. I don’t know whether they had had more tiles in the unfortunate visitor centre, or if they had all been dug up and sent to the V&A or British Museum. Once the exhibitions reopen there, I’ll visit and let you know.

The abbey is well worth a visit though. As is nearby Helmsley Castle, although I can’t remember seeing any tiles there (I was a bit distracted). If you’re in the area though...