This 11th-century Benedictine nunnery features impressive remains, including the abbey church, chapter house, and infirmary, showcasing its rich history and architectural significance.
An easy visit with helpful staff/volunteers to offer some insight into the remains of the Abbey. Free to enter the grounds (please make a donation if you visit) with a small museum also. There is a hunt for children which was good to get them exploring the site and understand a little more why it's there (suggest aged 6+). I believe audio guides are available too.
Absolutely stunning location, perched high on a hill overlooking the medieval town of Shaftesbury. The museum will be open again in April 2024 as its only open April to October each year. Whilst standing at the locked gates I saw the ghost of a nun wearing a white habit. I looked this up later and found that style of dress was worn there in the 1500's! This validates my sighting. I will return when it opens in April.
I looked at the grounds when it was closed and in winter and it didn't look very interesting. But this time we had a guided tour as a group and saw the hidden areas for research and restoration. Much better when you have a knowledgeable guide who can tell you what everything is and tell you stories. There is also a museum and shop. Entry by donation
Nice dog friendly attraction which was free. When we arrived a volunteer spent a few minutes giving us some basic history of the place which was nice and useful, bought a guide for PS1 which was worth it. Had a walk among the ruins and popped in the museum inside, also a shop here too. Had a nice time and was happy to donate some money when we left to allow for others to enjoy in the future.
A really interesting ruined Abbey, with a great museum that explains the historical context.ofnthe Abbey.
Well worth a visit and the staff can give you some great history and there is also a great video to watch
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Toilets
Restaurant
Good for kids
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An easy visit with helpful staff/volunteers to offer some insight into the remains of the Abbey. Free to enter the grounds (please make a donation if you visit) with a small museum also. There is a hunt for children which was good to get them exploring the site and understand a little more why it's there (suggest aged 6+). I believe audio guides are available too.
Absolutely stunning location, perched high on a hill overlooking the medieval town of Shaftesbury. The museum will be open again in April 2024 as its only open April to October each year. Whilst standing at the locked gates I saw the ghost of a nun wearing a white habit. I looked this up later and found that style of dress was worn there in the 1500's! This validates my sighting. I will return when it opens in April.
I looked at the grounds when it was closed and in winter and it didn't look very interesting. But this time we had a guided tour as a group and saw the hidden areas for research and restoration. Much better when you have a knowledgeable guide who can tell you what everything is and tell you stories. There is also a museum and shop. Entry by donation
Nice dog friendly attraction which was free. When we arrived a volunteer spent a few minutes giving us some basic history of the place which was nice and useful, bought a guide for PS1 which was worth it. Had a walk among the ruins and popped in the museum inside, also a shop here too. Had a nice time and was happy to donate some money when we left to allow for others to enjoy in the future.
A really interesting ruined Abbey, with a great museum that explains the historical context.ofnthe Abbey.
Well worth a visit and the staff can give you some great history and there is also a great video to watch
