Tintern Abbey Wales

Tintern Abbey stands on the England/Wales border and is managed by Cymru Wales (the Welsh equivalent of English Heritage). Tintern Abbey was originally founded by Walter de Clare, Lord of Chepstow, on 9 May 1131.

Things to see and do at Tintern Abbey

Today it is one of the greatest monastic ruins in Wales. The countryside that it is set in is as beautiful as the abbey itself and it’s not hard to see why monks of the time decided to settle here. The Abbey fell into ruin during the dissolution of the monasteries back in the 16th Century. Cymru Wales took over responsibility for the site back in 1984. Although it is mostly the walls of the Abbey that remain today there are also smaller remains of the domestic ranges.

Tintern Abbey has a small car park over the road from the Abbey itself. This is also the car park for the pub, The Anchor Inn, and if you eat or drink in here you can have your car parking fee refunded. We paid £3.00 to park which was then refunded when we bought some coffee and cake at the pub. The pub also has a small play area for the kids in the beer garden. Which of course, in turn, has a wonderful view of the abbey.

We were at the Abbey for just under an hour. It doesn’t take long to explore however it does make for an interesting and most certainly picturesque visit. The main abbey itself is essentially missing its roof. The tall walls, however, do still exist and appear well maintained even though they are exposed to the elements.

There are a few smaller ruins that you can also wander amongst such as the only room where there was a fireplace (brrrrr!), you can follow the Abbeys drainage system. Plus there are other rooms of various uses. There are a few signs dotted around the site to explain more about what you are wandering amongst. It perhaps doesn’t reflect in money spent compared to time spent however there is nowhere quite like it and it is quite breathtaking.

Further Information Tintern Abbey

Is there food and drink available?

There is no cafe, but you do park in a car park next to a large pub.

What are the main things to do?

A breathtaking ruin of an abbey set in equally stunning scenery. There are toilets and a shop.

What are the ticket prices?

Free for members of Cymru Wales, English Heritage members can benefit from a 50% reduction. An adult ticket is £5 or £2.30 for a child age 5-17. Under 5s are free, Other pricing options are available.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.