Ampleforth Abbey

@MaraJosDelaTor5 Hello, thank you for your message, would you please fill out our prayer request form and this will be sent directly to one of the fathers ampleforthabbey.org.uk/prayer-request

@visitampleforth In your charity, would you pray, with the intercesión of St. JOSEPH, for my daughter, that she would stop having night terrors and be able to eat healthy again? Thank you.

Today is the feast of St Joseph, remembered as the quiet guardian of the Holy Family. Known for humility, courage and faithfulness, he reminds us of the importance of caring for those entrusted to us.

A brilliant end to our retreat. A time filled with reflection, laughter, teamwork and faith as we explored our theme Light in the Darkness. ✨@StCuthberts6th @visitampleforth #StCuthbertsFormingGreatMen #StCuthbertsFaith #StCuthbertsCommitment #StCuthberts6th #Cuddyontour

Today we celebrate St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. He is remembered for sharing the Christian faith and for the prayer: “Christ be with me, Christ within me”. His words still inspire people to reflect on faith, courage and purpose.

Today is the Feast of St Chad and St Cedd. Educated at Lindisfarne, the brothers founded a monastery at Lastingham in North Yorkshire. After Cedd's death in 664, Chad became Bishop of the Northumbrians and later the first Bishop of Lichfield, helping bring Christianity to Mercia.

Today we began Lent with Mass in the Abbey church and the blessing and imposition of ashes. “Lent is a time… to place the mystery of God back at the centre of our lives.” (Pope Leo XIV, Message for Lent 2026) May this penitential season renew our hearts and faith.

The 'Shriving Bell' Summoned Confessions: On Shrove Tuesday, church bells, known as "Shriving Bells," were rung to call people to confess their sins before Lent began.

Children's 'Shroving' Songs for Treats: Historically, children would go door-to-door singing traditional rhymes, requesting pancakes or other treats, a practice known as 'Shroving' or 'Lent-crocking'.

Today we celebrate Shrove Tuesday. Why pancakes on this day? Traditionally, Christians used up rich foods like eggs & milk before Lent’s 40-day fast. 'Shrove' comes from ‘shriven,’ meaning confession, with church bells calling people to repent before fasting began. Scroll ⬇️

We’re hiring! 🌿 Join the team at Ampleforth Abbey, we currently have two vacancies: Development Manager and Management Accountant. Explore the roles and apply today: ampleforthabbey.org.uk/careers

Helmsley Restaurant Week begins on 23 February and we are delighted to be taking part. Join us in the Abbey Tea Room for a special two course menu for £15, with three mains and three desserts to choose from. Read more - ampleforthabbey.org.uk/helmsley-resta…

Yesterday we marked the World Day of Prayer for the Sick, holding in prayer all who are unwell, isolated or suffering. May we continue to show compassion through presence, care and kindness. Read more here - ampleforthabbey.org.uk/news/world-day…

Today we celebrate St Scholastica, sister of St Benedict and founder of Benedictine women's monastic life. Her life of prayer and faith reminds us of the quiet strength found in devotion, community and love.

The first signs of spring are here. Snowdrops are quietly appearing across the Abbey grounds, a gentle reminder of hope and renewal.

A few places remain on our retreat with Abbot Robert, 13th to 15th February. Explore what it means to do battle for the true King, put the false king in his place, and refocus your heart on Christ. Book now before it fills - ampleforthabbey.org.uk/are-you-ready-…

80% booked. Join us for the 2026 Easter Triduum Retreat, 2–5 April. Be immersed in worship, music and shared life at the heart of the Abbey, inspired by Jubilee 2025 and St Benedict. Book now to secure your place ampleforthabbey.org.uk/easter-triduum…

From richly coloured windows in the Abbey Church to the beautiful stained glass at the Grange, light and story come together across our buildings. Each window has its own character and history. Do you have a favourite?

York Residents' Weekend is almost here. Join us this weekend, 31 January and 1 February, for 10% off in the Ampleforth Abbey Tea Room. Open 10am to 3pm. Abbey Church tours on Sunday at 2pm. #YorkResFest @VisitYork

Booking is now open for our Easter Triduum Retreat (2 – 5 April 2026). This year's celebration takes inspiration from the beginning of the Rule of St Benedict: Are you yearning for life? Book today & join us in the largest event of the Abbey calendar: ampleforthabbey.org.uk/easter-triduum…

Did you know our Abbey Church is home to unique animal carvings? Created around 1925, the stone masons were inspired by Ampleforth College students, who sometimes chose their own pets. From owls to wolves and even a crab, see how many you can spot on your visit.