Washford is home to one of Somerset’s lesser-known treasures, which makes for an intriguing day out for families and wannabe historians alike. The Cistercian monastery of Cleeve is a refuge of calm and quiet, and it is believed to be home to some of England’s most beautiful cloister structures.
While the abbey church had been destroyed by Henry VIII during the dissolution in 1536, many of the cloister buildings, such as the gatehouse and 15th-century refectory including its glorious angel roof and 13th-century heraldic tiles, have survived remarkably intact.
In addition to being one of the greatest examples in the nation, an exhibition, as well as a virtual tour, convey the narrative of the abbey and the everyday lives of the holy men who previously resided in it.
You may learn more about the conservation effort that is being undertaken to ensure the long-term preservation of the mediaeval tiled pavement. The reinstatement of access to the 13th century tiled pavement will take effect on March 25, 2016.
The abbey is situated in a lovely valley surrounded by farmland, making it a popular destination for hikers and visitors using the West Somerset Railway, which stops at Washford station, to explore. You can travel to Cleeve Abbey from the station in ten minutes on foot, and you can save money on your admission ticket by using your train ticket as proof of purchase.
Whatever the weather, there is plenty to see and do at the Abbey, and if it is sunny, there is plenty of room for a picnic in the serene grounds, which are bordered by a creek that winds its way through.
