Abbey-Monastery

Abbeys and monasteries to visit in Britain.  Some may be in ruins, some may be remote, some may be the sites of former institutions, some may be viewed from the outside only.

Fountains Abbey

Visit Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire

The ruins of the great Cistercian Fountains Abbey are the largest monastic ruins in the United Kingdom. The monastery stood for some four centuries and can be atmospheric – but also crowded. Highlights include the east window in the Chapel of the Nine Altars, the enormous nave of the abbey church and the cellarium. Fountains Abbey and the adjoining Studley Royal water garden and park, including the Victorian Gothic church of St Mary’s, are all part of a World Heritage Site.

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Strata Florida

Strata Florida Abbey, the west doorway

Strata Florida Abbey, founded as a Cistercian order on the banks of the river Teifi in 1201, is the burial place for generations of Welsh princes. Although ruined, it is a focal point for Welsh culture and heritage.

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Egglestone Abbey

Egglestone Abbey, County Durham

Egglestone Abbey, founded in the late 12th century, is a ruined Premonstratensian monastery overlooking the River Tees. It was a poor house and had to survive damage by both Scots and English. It was dissolved in 1540 and yet its remains evoke a serene, historic atmosphere.

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