Bordesley Abbey

Museum | Redditch | England | United Kingdom

Historical museum in Redditch

The Bordesley Abbey Museum in Redditch is a historical and archaeologically significant museum that focuses on the history of Bordesley Abbey, a Cistercian monastery founded in 1140. The museum and the adjacent ruins provide visitors with a fascinating insight into the lives of the monks who established one of the first religious settlements in the region.

Bordesley Abbey ruins visitors

The abbey was built on once wet and infertile land, which the monks made arable with a sophisticated drainage system and rerouting of the Arrow River. The initial buildings of the abbey were constructed from wood, but within a few years, the monks replaced them with stone structures that evolved over time from simple greenish sandstone to magnificent, decorated red sandstone buildings.

Medieval religious life England

Special features of the ruins include the so-called "Night Stairs," a staircase that the monks used to reach the first service at 2 am. The abbey owned around 20 farms in Warwickshire and Worcestershire, and the revenue from agriculture, particularly grain and wool trading, brought wealth to the abbey. However, in 1538, during the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, the abbey was demolished and the lands were sold.

Archaeology Bordesley Abbey museum

The ruins of Bordesley Abbey were rediscovered in 1864 by JM Woodward and have been systematically excavated since 1969. The finds and artifacts from the excavations are displayed in the museum, where visitors can learn more about monastic life and the history of the abbey.

Contact details

Web

Phone
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Address
Needle Mill Ln
B98 8HY Redditch

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday11:00 - 16:00
Monday11:45 - 16:00
Tuesday11:00 - 16:30
Wednesday11:00 - 16:30
Thursday11:00 - 16:30
Friday11:00 - 16:30
Saturday11:00 - 16:00

Reviews

55 Reviews

Gerry Smith
17.11.2024

Spacious grassland frequented by dog walkers, with a stream and various access points. Some muddy areas, but also well-maintained paths. Features access to Bordsley Abbey, protected by a fence, and the Needle Museum. Convenient parking available at the Needle Museum and by Sainsbury's petrol station.
Edward Fitzpatrick
07.09.2024

Tranquil and rich in history. Bordesley Abbey offers a serene and picturesque setting to explore. The well-preserved ruins and the peaceful park provide an ideal environment for a relaxing walk, away from the city's noise and activity.
A T
03.05.2024

The abbey is pleasant to stroll around, although more information could enhance the experience. The cafe and staff at the main building received high praise for their service, making it a delightful place to visit.
Clem Dallaway
03.04.2024

Delightful and calming location, albeit a bit muddy currently. Nonetheless, it remains a wonderful place to visit.
Dante Harrison
05.07.2023

Incredibly fertile valley with water meadows. The imposing presence of the ruined monastery is likely attributed to telluric energy and the transmitting sandstone. The only downside mentioned is the presence of noisy dog walkers.
Tomek Kenyh
28.05.2023

The attractiveness of this place depends on how we feel connected to history. There are ruins here, and one could say not much else. However, if someone can sense the history in such a place, it can be really nice here. I personally recommend it.
oscar holly
23.05.2023

An exquisite historical structure.
Sharon Woodward
26.03.2023

Although closed for winter, one could still admire the ruins. The museum and Old Forge were open and definitely worth a visit.
Richard Farrell
04.09.2022

A pleasant spot to explore, although lacking in sights or activities. More information on the site would be beneficial.
Sir Clive
20.04.2022

Did not enter the museum, but found the place pleasant for a walk, and intends to return to visit the museum next time.
Iulia Arsan
26.03.2022

Ideal for a leisurely walk, with or without a canine companion.
James Kimbley
30.01.2022

A satisfying walk in a peaceful and clean environment.
A H
16.01.2022

Pleasant.
Rich Elliott
30.10.2021

Loved it....rich in history and with incredibly friendly staff.
Rebecca Foley
16.06.2021

Charming ruins worth spending some time around. My toddler enjoyed exploring the buildings and walls. Afterwards, we visited the nearby needle museum to check out the pop-up cafe and fantastic children's playground and sandpit.
Moisa Mihai
27.03.2021

A special place, where another page of history was written.
al jones
11.03.2021

It is wonderful to witness such ancient history in our local region.
Stewart Watkiss
17.09.2020

Fascinating historical site.
Alec Snook
26.08.2020

The ruin is well-preserved, with clear information provided. The surrounding area is very pleasant for a leisurely walk.
John Galvin
22.08.2020

Peaceful and relaxing. I enjoy visiting occasionally after a walk or bike ride.
Stephen Herbert
20.06.2020

A fantastic place to visit.
Debby Dean
30.11.2019

Perfect for a dog walk or a visit with children, with free parking and museum access.
destroyer of worlds
11.11.2019

Fairly interesting but lacks nearby attractions.
Philip Haines
16.10.2019

This site has been meticulously cleared over an extended period. Worth visiting if you appreciate this type of attraction.

 

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