Torre Abbey
The biggest surviving mediaeval monastery in Devon and Cornwall, the Abbey first took shape in 1196 when it was founded as a Premonstratensian Monastery, and today enjoys one of the finest seafront locations on the south west coastline.
Able to boast the third largest art collection in Devon, the Abbey is now part-gallery, part-museum, and part-historic house.
For the first time in its history, the property is now open to the public all year round. It also offers its visitors the chance to explore one of the most fascinating areas of the property never previously seen by the general public - the evocative medieval undercrofts.
Visitors can follow a new Torre Abbey Project Tour, to discover some of the property's "lost secrets" - including a slate grave slab in near-perfect condition featuring a Celtic carved design. Dating from around 1300, the slab was uncovered during the excavations under the cloister walk, and would have covered the grave of one of the Abbey's Premonstratensian Canons.
New exhibition areas provide a clear insight into the life and times of the Canons who - governed by the strict rules of the order - led a life of great austerity.
General improvements to the fabric of the building have been made to enhance the overall 'visitor experience'.
Torre Abbey is also now one of the leading Brass Rubbing Centres in Britain, housing a premier collection of 60 replica brasses.
The Abbey is open every day 10am-6pm (last admission 5pm); and from 10am-5pm from November to February.
Admission prices are: £5.90 adults, £4.90 concessions, £2.50 children.
For further details, visit www.torre-abbey.org.uk.
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