The Cistercians first English Abbey, a haunting ruin now, but what a history!

Waverley Abbey, situated about 3 miles south of Farnham station along the B3001, was built in 1128. It was the foundation house in England of the new Cistercian order of monks where manual work was encouraged and the Liturgy simplified. The reliance of lay brothers to work the land proved very attractive to the uneducated so by 1150 there were five other communities in England, including Fountain, Reivaulx and Tintern.

Waverley continued to grow until late into the 14th century providing shelter for pilgrims and an infirmary for the sick. Unfortunately the Abbey was not well endowed and was suppressed by Henry VIII in 1536. Afterwards the Abbey became a convenient source of local building material. The resultant ruins provide a peaceful and picturesque picnic spot. Visit and muse as Brother Cadfael’s alter ego living, working and worshipping on this spot.

Entrance to this English Heritage site is free, and a small car park provided.

Waverley Abbey

See also this website:
Waverley Abbey website