Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden

 

Shaftesbury Abbey Museum is situated in a commanding position overlooking the beautiful Blackmore Vale and close to the famous Gold Hill.

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Shaftesbury held one of the most important and influential religious houses for women, it was founded by King Alfred the Great in AD888 as England’s foremost Benedictine nunnery first led by his daughter. The Abbey was instrumental in the prosperity of the town for over 650 years. Only the foundations survive after the destruction ordered by Henry VIII in 1539. The museum brings to life the story of the Abbey and the people who lived here.

 

The museum buildings are currently closed to the public, but the gardens are open Saturday and Sunday 19th/20th and 26th/27th September.

 

Full disabled access in the museum, some uneven ground and steps in the garden. Please get in touch for further advice.