‘Too severe’ - Storm Austen forces cancellation at North Yorkshire attraction

Storm Austen threatens to be 'too severe', forcing the National Trust to cancel an event at Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire.

Storm Austen - National Trust cancels Fountains Abbey event. <i>(Image: National Trust)</i>

(Image: National Trust)

Storm Austen threatens to be 'too severe', forcing a popular North Yorkshire attraction to cancel a special after-dark event this weekend.

The National Trust has called off its Fountains by Floodlight experience at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal on Saturday, October 24, due to the stormy weather and high winds forecast.

The illuminated event invited visitors to explore the abbey ruins by night, with live music, street food, and guided twilight tours.

It was first held on Friday and Saturday, October 9 and 10, and the following Friday and Saturday.

Tomorrow, Friday, October 23, is planned to go ahead but Saturday, October 24 is cancelled.

The website still lists Thursday and Friday, October 29 and 30 as going ahead but visitors are advised to check before travelling.

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The National Trust issued a statement on its website, saying; "We're sorry to say that Storm Austen is too severe for Fountains by Floodlight to go ahead on Saturday 24 October.

"If you've booked tickets for this event you'll receive an email confirming that the event is cancelled and refunds will be issued automatically."

In an email to supporters who had booked for tickets, the charity apologised for 'the inconvenience', adding: "We’re currently processing order cancellations and refunds for paid tickets. We hope to have everyone’s refunds completed as soon as possible.

"We look forward to welcoming you back soon."

The event is a new addition to the attraction's calendar and features animated projections created by Illuminos, telling the story of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal through light and animation cast across the ancient stonework.