Buildwas Abbey: Tranquil Ruins of a 12th-Century Cistercian Monastery
Explore the peaceful, well-preserved ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey nestled beside the River Severn near Ironbridge Gorge.
Buildwas Abbey, nestled near Telford on the banks of the River Severn, is a serene English Heritage site featuring the well-preserved ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey. Visitors can explore the intact chapter house with its vaulted roof and tiled floor, the remains of the abbey church, and peaceful grounds surrounded by woodland. Free to enter, the site offers a quiet historical escape close to Ironbridge Gorge and Wenlock Priory.
A brief summary to Buildwas Abbey
- Much Wenlock Rd, Telford, Buildwas, TF8 7BW, GB
- +441952433274
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
- Wear sturdy footwear as some paths and steps can be slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring a camera to capture the intricate stonework and scenic riverside setting.
- Check the English Heritage website for any seasonal closures or special events before visiting.
- Dogs on leads are welcome, making it a pleasant outing for pet owners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Telford town center to Buildwas Abbey takes approximately 15-20 minutes via A4169. On-site parking is available for a £2 fee payable by SMS; spaces are limited, so early arrival is recommended.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Telford to Much Wenlock, with a stop near Buildwas Abbey approximately 25-30 minutes away on foot. Bus frequency varies, so check local timetables in advance.
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Walking
For those staying in Much Wenlock, a scenic 5-mile (about 1.5-hour) walk along country roads and footpaths leads to the abbey. Terrain is mostly level but includes some narrow paths; suitable footwear is advised.
Buildwas Abbey location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Buildwas Abbey
Origins and Monastic Heritage
Buildwas Abbey was founded in 1135 by monks from the Norman Savigny Abbey, later becoming part of the Cistercian order in 1147. This transition marked its growth into a prosperous religious community. The abbey's architecture reflects the austere Cistercian style, emphasizing simplicity and harmony with nature. The church, chapter house, and monastic buildings date mainly from the mid to late 12th century, showcasing medieval craftsmanship and monastic life.Architectural Highlights and Ruins
Among the most remarkable features is the chapter house, notable for its beautifully vaulted roof and one of the few surviving medieval tiled floors in England. The remains of the abbey church reveal the scale and design of the original structure, with stonework that speaks to the skill of medieval masons. Other surviving elements include the parlour and sacristy, which offer insight into the daily routines and spiritual practices of the monks.Setting and Atmosphere
Set on wooded terraces beside the River Severn, the abbey's location enhances its tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. The grounds are peaceful, with benches scattered for visitors to pause and absorb the historic surroundings. The natural environment complements the ruins, providing a scenic backdrop that changes with the seasons and invites quiet reflection.Historical Significance and Dissolution
Buildwas Abbey remained active until the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII in 1536, when it was closed and its lands granted to Sir Edward Grey. Despite this, the site survived remarkably intact, preserving important medieval features that offer a window into monastic life before the Reformation.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Entry to Buildwas Abbey is free, with a small parking fee payable on site. The site is unstaffed but well maintained by English Heritage, with a secondhand bookshop on the grounds supporting preservation efforts. Dogs on leads are welcome, and visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear as some paths can be slippery. The abbey is best explored at a leisurely pace, with about 1.5 to 2 hours recommended to fully appreciate the ruins and surroundings.Nearby Attractions and Cultural Context
Located close to the Ironbridge Gorge and Wenlock Priory, Buildwas Abbey forms part of a rich historical landscape in Shropshire. Visitors interested in medieval heritage can combine visits to these sites, enjoying a broader understanding of the region’s religious and industrial history. Seasonal events, such as medieval living history days, bring the past to life with demonstrations and performances that enhance the visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Portobello Tower
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War Memorial
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The Fountain
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Fountain
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National Trust Shugborough Estate
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Galton Bridge
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Witley Court & Gardens
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Trentham Monkey Forest
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Welshpool Cockpit
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Wigmore Castle
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Montgomery Town Walls
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Montgomery War Memorial
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The Old Bell Museum
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Montgomery Castle
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National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
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Unmissable attractions to see
Iron Bridge Tollhouse
3.1 km
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Wenlock Priory
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Wroxeter Roman City
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National Trust - Attingham Park Estate: Cronkhill
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Acton Burnell Castle
11.2 km
Explore the serene ruins of Acton Burnell Castle, a medieval fortified manor that twice hosted early English Parliaments and shaped political history.
National Trust - Attingham Park
11.2 km
Explore the grandeur of an 18th-century Georgian mansion and 4,000 acres of stunning parkland at Attingham Park, a National Trust treasure near Shrewsbury.
Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World
11.7 km
Discover wildlife wonders and prehistoric thrills in Telford’s family-friendly Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, where conservation meets adventure.
Lilleshall Abbey
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Bridgnorth Castle and Gardens
13.6 km
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Lilleshall Monument
14.2 km
Historic 70-foot obelisk atop Lilleshall Hill offering sweeping panoramic views across Shropshire’s countryside and rich local heritage.
Royal Air Force Museum Midlands
14.4 km
Explore historic aircraft, immersive Cold War exhibits, and family-friendly aviation fun at this free-entry museum in Shropshire.
Daniels Mill
14.6 km
England's largest working watermill, where 18th-century heritage and steam trains converge in a wooded Shropshire valley.
Haughmond Abbey
14.8 km
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Lord Hill's Column
15.7 km
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House Clearance Emporium
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Essential places to dine
Chez Maw Restaurant
2.2 km
Refined modern British dining in the historic heart of Ironbridge, blending local flavors with elegant service and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Huntsman of Little Wenlock
2.8 km
Charming country inn in Little Wenlock offering hearty British classics, cozy fires, and warm hospitality in Shropshire’s scenic countryside.
Riverside Inn
7.3 km
Charming riverside pub and restaurant in Shrewsbury’s Cound village offering classic British fare, cozy rooms, and scenic views by the River Severn.
The Pheasant Inn
8.8 km
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Latimer's of Shifnal
11.0 km
A vibrant Mediterranean tapas and cocktail bar in Shifnal’s historic market place, blending superb food with warm hospitality.
The Haughmond
11.9 km
A historic 17th-century coaching inn offering fine dining, stylish rooms, and tranquil gardens in the peaceful village of Upton Magna near Shrewsbury.
Oscars Restaurant
12.1 km
Modern British dining in Telford with a warm atmosphere, quality food, and attentive service at moderate prices.
Old Hall Restaurant
16.5 km
Experience authentic Persian cuisine and warm hospitality in the historic charm of Dorrington’s Old Hall Restaurant.
The Peach Tree
16.6 km
A charming Shrewsbury restaurant blending classic British flavors with warm hospitality in a historic setting.
Lion + Pheasant Hotel
16.8 km
Elegant Georgian boutique hotel in Shrewsbury offering refined dining, cozy rooms, and a peaceful garden in the town’s historic heart.
The Hayward Restaurant
17.0 km
Classic British dining with a modern touch in Shrewsbury’s historic Lion Hotel on charming Wyle Cop.
Bombos
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La Lanterna at the Old Vestry
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Chambers Restaurant
17.1 km
Chambers Restaurant offers traditional English dining in a historic oak-panelled setting, blending hearty cuisine with warm, family-run hospitality.
Royalist Restaurant
17.1 km
Experience refined British dining in a historic Shrewsbury setting with locally sourced flavors and elegant medieval charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironbridge Vintage Corner
2.4 km
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Copper Fox
3.1 km
Unique gifts and homewares in the heart of Ironbridge's UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Jeanshack and Vintage
3.1 km
Discover timeless style and quality vintage apparel at Ironbridge’s friendly and affordable Jeanshack and Vintage boutique.
Gift Company TELFORD
7.1 km
A cheerful, budget-friendly gift shop in Telford Shopping Centre, packed with fun presents, seasonal decorations, and affordable home items.
Telford Centre
7.1 km
A comprehensive shopping and leisure destination in Telford with over 160 stores and seamless access to entertainment at Southwater.
Menkind
7.1 km
Discover quirky gadgets, unique gifts, and playful novelties at Menkind in Telford Shopping Centre, the ultimate destination for fun and original presents.
The Forge Retail Park
7.2 km
A vibrant and convenient outdoor shopping destination in Telford with diverse stores and ample parking for all your retail needs.
National Trust Gift Shop
11.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and heritage gifts at the National Trust Gift Shop within the historic Attingham Park estate.
Fab Little Gift Shop
12.3 km
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Oberon
16.9 km
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La Vie
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Ella Cru
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Vinterior
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Maggie Mae's Vintage
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The Parade Shops
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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White Horse
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House of Grain
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The Nag’s Head
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Henry Tudor Inn
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Telegraph Vaults
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Dog & Pheasant
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Cromwell's Tap House
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Wheatsheaf
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Loggerheads
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St Nicholas Bar & Grill
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Oil
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The Libertine
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The Hole In The Wall
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Coach & Horses
17.3 km
Experience authentic English pub culture with hearty meals and real ales at Shrewsbury’s charming Coach & Horses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly