Egglestone Abbey - Barnard Castle

Egglestone Abbey: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the English Countryside

Egglestone Abbey, located at Abbey Ln, Bowes, Barnard Castle DL12 9TH, United Kingdom, is a stunning medieval ruin that dates back to the 12th century. This historical landmark is managed by English Heritage, a renowned organization dedicated to preserving and promoting England's rich heritage.

Specialties and Unique Features

• The abbey is a true masterpiece of medieval architecture, with its impressive ruins providing a glimpse into the lives of the Cistercian monks who once resided here.
• Set amidst the picturesque Teesdale countryside, Egglestone Abbey offers visitors a tranquil and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful walk or picnic.
• Informative plaques and exhibits are scattered throughout the site, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the abbey's history and significance.

Accessibility and On-Site Facilities

Wheelchair-accessible car park:

Egglestone Abbey offers a wheelchair-accessible car park, making it easier for visitors with limited mobility to enjoy this stunning historical site.

Wheelchair-accessible entrance:

The abbey also provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all visitors can explore this remarkable ruin with ease.

Visiting Egglestone Abbey

Egglestone Abbey is open to the public throughout the year, with varying opening hours depending on the season. It is advisable to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special events or exhibitions.

As with many historical sites, there is a small entrance fee for adults, with reduced rates for children, seniors, and English Heritage members. The fee helps to support the ongoing preservation and maintenance of the abbey.

What Visitors Think

Egglestone Abbey has garnered a impressive reputation among visitors, with a high average rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 886 reviews on Google My Business. Many visitors praise the stunning beauty and tranquility of the site, as well as the informative exhibits and plaques that provide a deeper understanding of the abbey's history.

One area where some visitors have expressed confusion is regarding parking fees. While most signs indicate that parking is free, some visitors have encountered payment methods via text message. This minor issue could be resolved by implementing an honesty box for those who may not be tech-savvy.

Contact and Further Information

For more information on Egglestone Abbey, including upcoming events and exhibitions, visitors can check out the official English Heritage website at english-heritage.org.uk.

For those who prefer to plan their visit in person, English Heritage can be reached by phone at 3703331181.

👍 Reviews of Egglestone Abbey

Nicole C.

5/5

Beautiful, peaceful place. Stunning ruins. Informative plaques dotted around.

Slight confusion about parking fee. One sign said Free Parking, another said £2 but could only pay by text message. Would benefit from an honesty box as an option for those who aren't tech savvy.

Anne ?. S.

4/5

Eggleston Abbey is with English Heritage. It is free to enter, but non members a charge of £2 to park.
The Abbey ruins itself is set in beautiful scenery. Dates back to the 1100s .
There are still physical parts of the Abbey that presented once was.
Totally recommend for peace and relaxation. My 20 year old son enjoyed the Abbey.
No facilities or toilets.
1 mile half miles away from Barnard Castle Town.

President U.

5/5

Amazing place, it’s free entry and there is parking on site which is £2 but goes
To English Heritage to help maintain the abbey. So close to Barnard Castle and Bowes Museum. Fabulous for a picnic or a quick visit.

Carolyn B.

5/5

The Abbey is mainly ruins but there are some bits you can walk in. Lovely architecture and you can imagine the scale of the Abbey if it was complete.Could so with some more in depth historical information, but well worth a visit.

heather C.

5/5

A great hidden away gem. We parked here ( free for english heritage members ) £2 if not, then walked into Barnard Castle to see the castle there. Nice easy walk.
The Abbey itself is beautiful, a lovely spot for a picnic, peaceful, and not many visitors, perfect place to just breathe and be. No facilities here.

Adam H.

5/5

Lovely charming example of a small monetary in a picturesque location. It has a small car park which costs £2. Lovely area to walk in and gorgeous on a warm day

Alan H.

4/5

Car park up an old road free entry. Egglestone Abbey is now a 12th century ruin. Many parts are still standing

W B.

4/5

A nice way to spend half an hour if you’re visiting Barnard Castle and rather prefer the silence of a beautiful countryside to the dynamics of a market town. It’s only a 5-minute drive from Barnard Castle. It has a small car park but no toilets or English Heritage staff/facilities. It’s free entry.