Historical & Natural Attractions

Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey is a 12th-century ruined Cistercian monastery situated on the banks of the River Wye in Monmouthshire, Wales. It is one of the most famous and picturesque ruins in Britain, and has attracted visitors for centuries, including poets and artists who have been inspired by its beauty and tranquility.

The abbey was founded in 1131 by Walter de Clare, lord of Chepstow, and was home to a community of Cistercian monks. The abbey grew in size and wealth over the centuries, and played an important role in the local economy, with its monks engaging in farming, milling, and other industries. However, the abbey was dissolved in 1536 as part of the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, and the buildings were left to decay.

Today, visitors can wander around the ruins of Tintern Abbey, exploring its many nooks and crannies and admiring its Gothic architecture. The abbey is particularly famous for its soaring arches, which are supported by delicate pillars and give the interior a sense of grandeur and majesty. The nave is particularly impressive, with its high vaulted ceiling and long, narrow windows that let in streams of light. The cloister, which once housed the monks’ living quarters and communal areas, is also a popular spot, with its tranquil courtyard and peaceful gardens.

One of the most striking features of Tintern Abbey is its location, nestled in the heart of the Wye Valley. The surrounding countryside is lush and green, with the river winding its way through wooded hillsides and meadows. The abbey’s position on the riverbank means that visitors can enjoy stunning views of the abbey from the opposite bank, and there are many picturesque walks in the area.

Tintern Abbey has inspired many artists and writers over the centuries, including the poet William Wordsworth, who wrote a famous poem about the abbey in 1798. The poem, titled “Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey,” reflects on the power of nature and the ability of ancient ruins to evoke a sense of awe and wonder in the human soul.