Visitors can expect to discover the impressive ruins of one of England's most powerful Cistercian monasteries. They can explore the elegant museum displaying previously unseen artefacts and wander the extensive ruins of the abbey to learn more about its history and development.
The new exhibition explores the importance of the river and water to the monastic site. Through images and artefacts, visitors can learn about the relationship between the monastery and the River Rye, as well as the ingenious engineering solutions used to supply water for daily living, sacred use, and industry.
Key figures in the history of the Abbey include Walter Espec, William the first abbot, Aelred the third abbot, and Abbot Silvanus. Each of these individuals played a role in the development and expansion of the monastery over the years.
Visitors can see objects such as brass taps in the shape of a serpent and a cockerel, a block of stone from the toilets graffitied by monks with a drawing of the Holy Spirit, and monastic fishing hooks and weights. These objects provide insight into the daily life and activities of the monks at the Abbey.
Membership offers unlimited access to castles, gardens, historic houses, and abbeys, as well as free entry for up to six children accompanied by an adult member. Members also receive a complimentary full-color handbook and the award-winning Members' Magazine delivered three times a year.
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