Tintern Abbey

When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern Abbey: a Gothic masterpiece and Romantic symbol of the sublime.

Perhaps one of Cadw’s most photographed sites - its popularity no doubt a result of its roofless splendour perched on the banks of the River Wye - Tintern Abbey was founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks.

What started out as timber buildings later evolved to become a stone church and cloisters, before the patronage of wealthy Marcher Lords allowed the monks to build a new Abbey church in 1269. The rest, as they say, is history.

That history, however, was sadly short-lived, with the dissolution of the monasteries in 1536 resulting in Tintern slowly turning into the majestic ruin we know and love today - love very much being the apt word, given the 18th century surge of romantic interest in its ‘Sublime’ and ‘Picturesque’ features.

During the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, for example, people swapped Europe for Britain, flocking to wild landscapes such as the Wye Valley on small boats laden with picnic hampers.

Today, for visitors from across Great Britain, a visit to the Abbey represents the perfect day out; its unique mix of architecture, history and open space creating adventures, lessons, and memories for all ages.

For many Cadw members, on the other hand, Tintern Abbey represents the epitome of why they pledge to protect historic sites through Cadw membership: because, with most of the church undergoing regular conservation work, their membership fees support the ongoing preservation of such historical and cultural landmarks.

And that’s what makes a Cadw membership so special: the fact that it not only means being able to visit heritage sites for free - but protect them in the process, too.

Visitor Notice

The abbey church is currently undergoing a programme of conservation and repair work to ensure the continued preservation of the monument. This could affect your visit as we need to restrict access to some areas due to health and safety concerns.

As such, all visitors will be offered a 10% discount on admission prices. Thank you for your patience and support during this time.

Follow the story [link: Tintern Abbey Conservation Timeline | Cadw (gov.wales)]

Opening times: 9.30am - 5pm

Prices: Members - FREE, Adult - £9.40