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Trendell’s Folly: Romantic Ruins in Abingdon’s Abbey Gardens

A romantic 19th-century folly built from ancient stones, nestled in Abingdon’s tranquil Abbey Gardens.

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Trendell’s Folly is a charming 19th-century garden folly located within Abingdon’s Abbey Gardens. Though often mistaken for medieval ruins, it is a picturesque structure built from reclaimed stones, including some from the nearby St Helen’s Church. Set amidst tranquil gardens and wide paths, it offers visitors a peaceful spot for strolling and reflection, enriched by the deep history of the former Abingdon Abbey site nearby.

A brief summary to Trendell’s Folly

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes for a leisurely stroll through the flat, accessible paths of Abbey Gardens.
  • Visit nearby historic sites like Checker Hall and the Long Gallery to deepen your understanding of Abingdon Abbey’s legacy.
  • Enjoy the peaceful seating areas around Trendell’s Folly for quiet reflection or a picnic.
  • Follow the Lost Abbey Trail for a more energetic 2.5-mile circular walk exploring the abbey’s history.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Abingdon town center to Abbey Close; the journey typically takes 10 to 15 minutes with frequent daily departures. The bus stop is within a short walk of Abbey Gardens and Trendell’s Folly. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4.

  • Train and Walk

    From Oxford railway station, take a taxi or local bus to Abingdon town center, about 20 minutes travel time. From there, it is a 15-minute flat walk to Abbey Gardens and Trendell’s Folly. This option combines regional rail travel with a pleasant stroll.

  • Car

    Driving from central Abingdon, allow 5 to 10 minutes to reach Abbey Close, where limited parking is available. Parking may be restricted during events, so check local signage. The site is easily accessible on foot from parking areas.

Trendell’s Folly location weather suitability

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Discover more about Trendell’s Folly

A Garden Creation with Historic Stones

Trendell’s Folly was constructed in the 19th century by a private owner named Mr Trendell, who creatively assembled this romantic ruin-like structure using stones and architectural fragments found locally. Many of these materials are believed to have originated from St Helen’s Church and other historic buildings in Abingdon. Despite its appearance, the folly is not a genuine medieval ruin but evokes the atmosphere of the abbey that once dominated this area.

The Legacy of Abingdon Abbey

The site around Trendell’s Folly is steeped in history, once home to Abingdon Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 7th century. The abbey was a major religious and economic center until its dissolution in 1538 under Henry VIII. Though the abbey buildings were mostly demolished, the grounds retain traces of their former grandeur, with archaeological foundations marked in the gardens and surviving buildings nearby, such as the Checker Hall and Long Gallery.

A Tranquil Spot in Abbey Gardens

Nestled within the Abbey Gardens, Trendell’s Folly sits among ornamental flowerbeds, wide gates, and flat, accessible paths. The gardens provide a peaceful environment for visitors of all ages to stroll, rest on plentiful seating, and enjoy views of the nearby river and town. The folly adds a whimsical, historic charm to the landscape, inviting contemplation of Abingdon’s rich past.

Exploring the Surrounding Heritage

Visitors can extend their experience by exploring the Abbey Meadow and following the Lost Abbey Trail, which reveals the story of the monks’ commercial enterprise and the abbey’s influence on the town. Nearby, the rushing waters of Abingdon Lock and Weir enhance the natural beauty of the area, while the statue of Queen Victoria and other garden features add layers of cultural interest.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

Though a 19th-century creation, Trendell’s Folly is a Grade II listed structure, recognized for its unique contribution to the historic fabric of Abingdon. It stands as a testament to Victorian romanticism and the enduring allure of medieval heritage, blending garden artistry with local history.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

The folly’s setting encourages a leisurely pace, ideal for quiet reflection, photography, and enjoying the sensory pleasures of the gardens. Its deceptive ruins spark curiosity and imagination, making it a memorable highlight within Abingdon’s network of historic sites and green spaces.

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