*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 …
*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.
Not suitable for disabled or walking difficulties. Although it has both disabled parking and toilets it would be impossible for anyone with, even, minor walking difficulties to explore ANY of the Ab…Full review by philvance2007
Jul 10, 2024
Quiet, evocative Benedictine historic site. Expert and friendly interpretative site. A good capsule history of the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII. Quiet and lots of birds. Recommende…Full review by coyotebanjo
Jun 25, 2024
We visited Cleeve Abbey as it was near where we were staying. There is good carparking off site, but very close by on the opposite side of the road about 100 yds/m from the entrance. Staff very f…Full review by Peter Z
Hi I would like to visit Cleeve abbey. I am living in London and am unsure how I would get there. I would be on my own. Would it be wise to stay somewhere for a night? If so where? And how would I get to Cleeve Abbey from the hostel, airbnb, etc?
A:
You could easily drive from London, visit Cleeve Abbey and return home in one day. However, in my opinion it would be rather tiring! Otherwise take Jean's advice.
Hi. How long should I plan to spend at Cleeve Abby? Thanks!
A:
If you are interested in the architecture and history of the abbey I would suggest probably 45 - 60 minutes inside and maybe 30 - 45 minutes walking around the exterior and looking in the …
If you are interested in the architecture and history of the abbey I would suggest probably 45 - 60 minutes inside and maybe 30 - 45 minutes walking around the exterior and looking in the shop. Cleve Abbey is not a large property but its location and sense of peace may make you want to linger. I spent about 3 hours in total but that was because I sat for a while enjoying the tranquility and the birdsong.
With my mum who is not great at slowest. How hilly us it?
A:
If you have a blue badge you can park right next to the abbey. It is all level going however she may struggle with the stairs up to the top floor as they are narrow and steep. She is likely to …
If you have a blue badge you can park right next to the abbey. It is all level going however she may struggle with the stairs up to the top floor as they are narrow and steep. She is likely to be able to manage the stairs to the first floor where the refectory is situated - this is well worth a visit. There are picnic tables available although no cafe. Nice pub down the road in the village.
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