AS twilight gave way to night, visitors to the ruins of a North Yorkshire historic monument got a different view of the site this weekend.

‘Fountains by Floodlight’ runs every Saturday in October at Fountains Abbey, near Ripon.

The renowned Cistercian ruins, a Unesco World Heritage Site owned by the National Trust, will be open until 9pm each Saturday during the month.

The event has become an annual tradition for many, as family and friends step out into the fresh autumn air and stand back to see the romantic ruins illuminated and dominating the night sky.

Visitor experience manager Jen Taylor said: “Autumn floodlighting really does show this World Heritage Site in a whole new light.

“The atmosphere is truly magical and it highlights beautiful features of the abbey that usually go unnoticed - it’s fantastic to see visitor’s reactions to the stunning silhouette of the abbey.’

The abbey, which was built on the banks of the River Skell in 1132, was used for over 400 years, until 1539 when Henry VIII ordered the dissolution of all monasteries.

Fountains by Floodlight takes place from 5pm on Saturday evenings throughout October. Last entry to the grounds is 8pm and lights are switched off at 9pm.

Admission is half price, or free for National Trust and English Heritage members.