Tintern Abbey
Tintern, Monmouthshire, NP16 6SE
0870 042 4595
Category: Wye Valley and the Vale of Usk
The Cistercian abbey of Tintern is one of the greatest monastic ruins of Wales. It was only the second Cistercian foundation in Britain, and the first in Wales, and was founded in May 1131 by Walter de Clare, lord of Chepstow. Always closely associated with the lords of Chepstow, who were often generous benefactors, Tintern Abbey prospered and buildings were added and updated in every century until its dissolution in 1536. Its most generous benefactor was Roger Bigod III, whose monumental undertaking was the rebuilding of the church in the late 13th century. In gratitude, his coat of arms was put in the glass of the abbey's east window.
Tintern's crowning glory, it is the ruins of Roger's church which dominate the site today. It is remarkably complete, and the site also boasts extensive remains of cloister and associated monastic buildings.
Visit Tintern Abbey
1st April to 31st October 09:00 - 17:00 Daily. 1st November to 31st March 09:30 - 16:00 Monday to Saturday, 11:00 - 16:00 Sunday
0870 042 4595
calls charged at national rate
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/default.asp?id=6&PlaceID;=132