Valle Crucis Abbey [Valley of the Cross]
The ruins of the Abbey lie in green fields beneath Llangollen’s mountains. The Abbey is more formerly known as “The Abbey Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Valle Crucis.” It is known in Welsh as “Abaty Glyn Y Groes.”
Religious life at Valle Crucis began in 1201, when the prince of Northern Powys invited Cistercian Monks to found the Abbey. It ended 336 years later, with Henry VIII’s suppression of the monasteries in 1537.
In medieval times, this was a remote spot, ideal for austere Cistercian monks, who deliberately sought out wild and lonely places.
The Abbey has had a turbulent history. It suffered badly both during Edward I’s Welsh wars and Owain Glyndwr’s revolt. There were also two serious fires.
The building is now in ruins, though large parts of the original structure still survive, including the glorious west front complete with an elaborate, richly carved doorway, beautiful rose window and 14th century inscription ‘Abbot Adams carried out this work; may he rest in peace. Amen’.
The Abbey’s Beautiful West Front
Abbey Church Interior – South Transept
Looking West towards the Mountains
East End of Chapel
The East End of the Abbey, viewed from the Nave
Ruins of the East End of the Abbey
Flowers growing through a hole in the roof
Vaulted Ceilings of the Chapter House
The Monks’ Dormitory. It now houses a collection of medieval grave slabs.
The Abbot’s Living Quarters
The Fireplace in the Abbot’s Quarters
The Abbot’s Sleeping Quarters
Looking back at the East Side of the Abbey
Arched Windows of the Chapter House
The Only Surviving Monastic Fish Pond in Wales. The Monks were allowed to eat fish, but not meat.
A Duck Sitting Pretty In the Undergrowth
A Duck Preens Herself Beside the Pond
A Life-like Monk Sits Writing at His Desk
The Monk Raises His Head at the Press of a Button
The East Side of the Abbey as seen from beside the fish pond
The history of the Abbey is explained with interactive videos and an animatronic monk.
The entrance fee is £2.80, although it is free out of season.
There is a little shop selling souvenirs and guide books, and a tea room for drinks and snacks.
Valle Crucis Abbey is atmospheric, calm and peaceful.
All in all, it is a wonderful piece of Welsh history, and well worth a visit.
Beautiful ruins…nice to see that they’re being maintained so well.
Thank you, Scott. Glad you enjoyed the tour. Blessings.
You’re welcome…and very much so.
WOW! Again… these are so beautiful dear Lizzie, especially number 11 “The Abbot’s Living Quarters” and the reflection photographs are my favorite. You are amazing. Thank you, Greetings and Love, nia
Thank you for your wonderful greetings which touch my heart. You are a lovely warm person. Thank you for bringing your warmth to my day. Blessings from Lizzie Joy
Fabuleux !
Thank you so much. Blessings from Lizzie Joy
Wonderful post and photos! What an interesting, beautiful place
Thank you. I’m glad you enjoyed the tour. It is a beautiful place in a tranquil setting. Blessings xx
These pictures are truly gorgeous! I love old architecture – the older the better. I can almost feel the textures in your photos as they are so vivid & clear. Thank you for the tour. ~ Wendy
Thank you so much, Wendy. I’m thrilled they made such an impression on you. Blessings from Lizzie Joy