Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire, Wales
Look at that blue sky! We got lucky on our last day in Wales so we decided to jet on over to Tintern Abbey after our visit to Raglan Castle. I cannot begin to tell you how glad I am that we did!
If you are even remotely interested in architecture, ruins, history or just downright beautiful places then put Tintern Abbey on your list. It’s hard to capture the majesty of the Abbey in photos, but I tried.
The columns are simply massive. The details on the windows could not be more ornate. Set within the tree lined valley of the River Wye, the setting couldn’t be more spectacular.
As I walked around I tried to imagine how Tintern Abbey would’ve looked 700 years ago. I imagined the monks walking around and performing their daily duties of prayer, study and chores. It’s not hard to gain understanding into part of their lives as Monks. The Welsh preservation service has done a wonderful job of providing plaques and notices explaining the different locations and functions of each area of the Abbey ruins to guide you along.
And, if you know me, you know I read them all! I walked around the Abbey for two hours in sheer amazement. Even if you don’t love all things history, this is still a great place to visit.
After walking around the Abbey, we stopped in at the little cafe and enjoyed a ‘cuppa’ and scone! Everyone said I need to drink my tea properly with my pinkie for the photo. I don’t think it helped me look like a local but it was great fun!
If you’re interested in visiting Tintern, which I strongly recommend, the admission fee is below. Or if you want to organize a longer stay in Wales, I strongly suggest you consider purchasing the CADW’s Explorer Pass. This can save you tons of money if you plan on visiting more than one site.
Early History of Tintern Abbey
The Abbey was founded in 1131 by the Anglo-Norman lord, Walter Fitz Richard of Clare.
The Abbey was likely a wooden structure for 150 years before the current Gothic stone structure was built.
It took over 60 years to complete the Abbey.
For over 400 years the Abbey was a center of prayer, devotion and dedication.
Demise of Tintern Abbey
Tintern Abbey feel victim to the famous dissolution of the monasteries during the first wave in 1536 when Henry VIII ordered the dissolution and named himself the Supreme Head of the Church of England.
Everything that was in the Abbey of value was weighed, cataloged and sent to the King’s treasury. Anything that wasn’t sent to the King was reportedly sold on the spot.
Once the Abbey was stripped on any monetary value, it was granted to Henry Somerset, the Earl of Worchester. The Earl had no desire to live in a Monastery so the Abbey feel into ruin.
The lead on the roof was removed in 1541 and melted down for use of the King.
The Abbey was forgotten until the 18th century when writers and artists were inspired by it and began writing poems and painting masterpieces about the Abbey.
Visiting Tintern Abbey
There is an admission fee for Tintern Abbey. The costs are:
Family – £20.00*
Student and children under 16 – £4.10
I hope you’ve enjoyed my brief review of Tintern Abbey and hope you feel inspired to visit. I’d love to hear from you if you’ve visited Tintern Abbey. Leave a comment and let me know how you felt when you visited!
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