Tintern Abbey
Tintern, Gwent, NP16 6SE
Tintern Abbey—immortalized in the title of a Wordsworth poem—was the first building of its kind in Wales, originally founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks, before being rebuilt in a gothic style a century later. Nowadays, it’s a Grade I-listed and impressively-preserved (albeit roofless) medieval attraction on the banks of the River Wye, within easy day trip distance of Cardiff.
The Basics
Once home to more than 400 monks, Tintern Abbey wasn’t fully restored until the 18th century, and has since become a popular attraction on the England-Wales border. In fact, there are now full-day trips which run from both sides, some of which are private—perfect for travelers on a time budget who still want to visit a beautifully-restored Welsh relic. Many excursions also combine a visit to Tintern Abbey with several other religious, historical, or architectural points of interest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- History buffs will especially appreciate the opportunity to visit such a well-preserved, formerly-Cistercian abbey in Wales.
- To learn more about the abbey, consider taking a tour which includes a guide well-versed in the history of the place.
- Travelers who don’t want to deal with public transport can take a tour which includes private round-trip transportation.
- Tintern Abbey may not be entirely accessible to those with mobility issues, as not all parts of the ruins are paved.
How to Get There
Tintern Abbey is just an hour’s drive from Cardiff city center along the M4 and can also be accessed via public transport. Board a National Express coach bound for London and depart in Chepstow, before taking a 15-minute bus ride to Tintern Abbey. However, for travelers who would prefer to avoid multiple public transport connections, some tours offer round-trip transportation to Tintern Abbey and other South Wales destinations.
When to Get There
Tintern Abbey is accessible daily, barring public holidays like Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day; however, opening hours differ, with the abbey typically opening at 9:30am, before closing at 5pm in spring and 6pm in summer. In winter, Tintern Abbey opens in the mid-morning and closes by 4pm. Last admission is half an hour before closing.
Other Wye Valley Attractions
Tintern Abbey is perched in the southern fringes of the Wye Valley, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which straddles England and Wales. While in the area, take advantage of the opportunity to visit the picturesque villages of Symonds Yat and Ross-on-Wye or the Ban-y-Gor and Lancaut nature reserves.
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