*Please check the Cleeve Abbey website for our official opening hours. In Washford lies one of the undiscovered jewels of Somerset, providing an interesting day out for families and budding historians alike. The Cistercian abbey of Cleeve is a haven of peace and tranquillity, said to contain the finest cloister buildings in England. Visitors today can catch a glimpse of monastic life 800 years ago; although the abbey church was destroyed by Henry VIII during the dissolution in 1536, the cloister buildings including the gatehouse, 15th century refectory with its glorious angel roof and 13th century heraldic tiles have survived remarkably intact.
Came here on a glorious summers day having just joined the English heritage. Took the West Somerset steam train which was a short walk away. Expected this to be ruins but was pleasantly surprised at how well retained this building was. Steeped in history. And great to explore. Plenty of rooms to visit including a big open room with loads of atmosphere. And with lovely grounds outside to sit and enjoy. A well stocked shop where both my sister and myself returned with souvenirs and yummy jams and relishes. And a very helpful assistant who gave us loads of information about the Abbey.
Smashing place. Lots to see and wonder at. Loved the preserved tiled floor and really great information about how they were made. So interesting and informative in a really acceptable way. Loo was spotless . EH staff were really informative and enthusiastic. I loved our little visit in the sunshine today. Boards held just enough information to capture you.
Nice place to visit. Good history of Cistertian Abbey and well laid out. Some original tile and paving work. Small shop, toilets are clean and easy free parking in the English Heritage car park across the road. Free disabled parking on site. Informative and helpful worker stationed in shop.Well worth a visit.
This 12th-century Cistercian monastery is remarkably well-preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into monastic life. The tranquil ruins, including the stunning cloister and refectory, are surrounded by beautiful countryside. I visited during late summer which is quite nice. Staff offered a nice introduction at the ticket place. Highlight were the tiled mosaics.
A beautifully calm place to visit. A very warm welcome within the shop. 7 species of bat reside here, as well as otters (not that we saw either!). Take a sneak inside the chimneys to see outside. The conservation work is extraordinary - saved for future generations. The work of English Heritage at its best. #englishheritage #conservation
Stopped off on our way back from Cornwall. What a beautiful building/ruin in stunning countryside. The staff could not have been more helpful and knowledgeable.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Good for kids
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Came here on a glorious summers day having just joined the English heritage. Took the West Somerset steam train which was a short walk away. Expected this to be ruins but was pleasantly surprised at how well retained this building was. Steeped in history. And great to explore. Plenty of rooms to visit including a big open room with loads of atmosphere. And with lovely grounds outside to sit and enjoy. A well stocked shop where both my sister and myself returned with souvenirs and yummy jams and relishes. And a very helpful assistant who gave us loads of information about the Abbey.
Smashing place. Lots to see and wonder at. Loved the preserved tiled floor and really great information about how they were made. So interesting and informative in a really acceptable way. Loo was spotless . EH staff were really informative and enthusiastic. I loved our little visit in the sunshine today. Boards held just enough information to capture you.
Nice place to visit. Good history of Cistertian Abbey and well laid out. Some original tile and paving work. Small shop, toilets are clean and easy free parking in the English Heritage car park across the road. Free disabled parking on site. Informative and helpful worker stationed in shop.Well worth a visit.
This 12th-century Cistercian monastery is remarkably well-preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into monastic life. The tranquil ruins, including the stunning cloister and refectory, are surrounded by beautiful countryside. I visited during late summer which is quite nice. Staff offered a nice introduction at the ticket place. Highlight were the tiled mosaics.
A beautifully calm place to visit. A very warm welcome within the shop. 7 species of bat reside here, as well as otters (not that we saw either!). Take a sneak inside the chimneys to see outside. The conservation work is extraordinary - saved for future generations. The work of English Heritage at its best. #englishheritage #conservation
Stopped off on our way back from Cornwall. What a beautiful building/ruin in stunning countryside. The staff could not have been more helpful and knowledgeable.
