Tewkesbury Abbey
Abbey Church of St Mary the Virgin, Tewkesbury
An abbey church with one of the tallest Norman towers in the world, set in a half-timbered old town at the confluence of the Severn and Avon
Tewkesbury Abbey was built in the 12th century. At the Reformation it was saved from demolition when local townspeople bought it, and it is now one of the largest parish churches in England. The huge Norman central tower is about 45 metres high, and the west front arch rises 20 metres. Inside, the 14th-century stained glass and the burials from the Wars of the Roses are worth examining closely.
Entry is free, though donations are suggested. The old town retains many Tudor half-timbered houses and narrow lanes. The abbey mill and the riverside meadows are good for a stroll. The abbey can be combined with Gloucester (about 18 km) or with the northern Cotswolds towards Chipping Campden in one itinerary.
Opening hours
About 08:30–17:30 (please keep quiet during services)
Nearby sights
- Gloucester Cathedral
- Sudeley Castle
- Broadway Tower
- Cirencester
- Chipping Campden
- Upper and Lower Slaughter
- Bibury
- Bourton-on-the-Water