Tintern Abbey

The grace and majesty of the 12th century Cistercian Abbey is magnified by its sublime setting in the valley of the Wye. Today, the shell of the great building stands open to the elements, a series of Gothic archways reaching for the skies which still feature fascinating architectural design and provide an interesting glimpse into the monastic way of life.

In its heyday (around the 1300s) over 400 monks lived and worked in the grounds of Tintern Abbey. Until Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries it was the richest abbey in Wales, and it is now the best preserved religious house in the country, as well as an outstanding example of the 'Decorated' style of Gothic architecture. Even today, the delicate tracery around the vast windows, doorways and pillars has retained its eye-catching detail.

However, Tintern is known for its beautiful wooded landscape as much as for the Abbey ruins. Wordsworth's famous poem, 'Lines composed a few miles above Tintern Abbey', was inspired by the peaceful scenery and panoramic views which can still stir the soul of visitors from all over the world.

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