Tintern Abbey Cottage

The main complex is mostly closed off behind scaffolding intended to keep the structure from falling apart, but there’s still plenty to see and do. This ancient abbey dates back to 1131 and is in remarkable condition for its age. Entry costs £9. Parking is £5 a day, refundable if you spend at least £5 in the gift shop.

The paths are good and handicap friendly, and dogs can come along on a lead. Since most of the Abbey has no roof, bring clothes for the weather. It’s part of the Cadw group of historic sites. This was my first visit to Tintern Abbey, but probably not my last. The architecture is stunning, as is the setting, and I can see why the monks chose this place.

I’ve always loved visiting old castles and houses, and this place was stunning to explore. Some building work had closed off part of it, but there was still so much beauty to see. I also enjoyed reading about why it was built, what it was used for, and how it became a ruin. Really interesting.

I wandered through Tintern Abbey slowly, with birdsong and wildflowers among the old stone arches. The open ruins feel humbling, with sky where the roof once was and time seeming to soften everything. Wales keeps surprising me with its ancient, untamed beauty and its impossible peace. A place to breathe deeply and just be...with you.