Waverley Abbey Farnham
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Britain's first Cistercian abbey, a tranquil historical gem with scenic walks and a charming cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Waverley Abbey Farnham
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Britain's first Cistercian abbey, a tranquil historical gem with scenic walks and a charming cafe.
"A glorious, historical landmark offering a large tranquil space and a peaceful comfort."
🚶♀️ Easy Access & Walks
Follow signs for 'Historical Ruin' for wheelchair access. Avoid signs for 'Waverley Abbey/venue private'. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture the enigmatic buildings and abundant wildlife. The ruins offer endless photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Abbey Ruins
Main Abbey Site
Explore the atmospheric remains of Britain's first Cistercian monastery, dating back to 1128. A photographer's dream.
Waverley Abbey House Cafe
Opposite the Abbey ruins
Enjoy refreshments with stunning views of the ruins and surrounding countryside. A perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing break.
River Wey Walk
Adjacent to the Abbey
A peaceful stroll along the riverbanks, often dotted with geese and offering serene natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Parking
+1Combine with Nature Walks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Access & Walks
Follow signs for 'Historical Ruin' for wheelchair access. Avoid signs for 'Waverley Abbey/venue private'. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture the enigmatic buildings and abundant wildlife. The ruins offer endless photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Convenience
Free parking is available, with an overflow car park at Waverley Abbey House.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Access & Walks
Follow signs for 'Historical Ruin' for wheelchair access. Avoid signs for 'Waverley Abbey/venue private'. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture the enigmatic buildings and abundant wildlife. The ruins offer endless photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Convenience
Free parking is available, with an overflow car park at Waverley Abbey House.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend. :dog:
🏰 Combine with Local Sites
Extend your visit by exploring nearby Frensham Little Pond and Bourne Wood, famous for film locations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Waverley Abbey for its free entry, stunning historical ruins, and peaceful atmosphere. The adjacent cafe and scenic walking routes are also highly appreciated, making it a recommended destination for history buffs, photographers, and families. Some minor accessibility issues have been noted for wheelchair users, requiring careful navigation.
"Arrived here on a warm late september day and it wasn't a disappointment. Parking was easy in the small car park and a five minute walk down a level path through two kissing gates led me to this glorious, historical landmark (the very first monastery in the UK). Built in the 12th century, the ruins offer a large tranquil space and plenty of birds, dragonflies, ladybugs and geese although the geese are mainly on the water (the site is next to the river Wey), their presence adds an ethereal feeling. There are stories of ghost sightings and strange noises, both of which I experienced here but it wasn’t uncomfortable, just a unique and pleasant experience. Nearby there’s a large house offering a cafe in the most beautiful setting. Such a peaceful comfort so needed in hectic times. A soft drink cost £3.25 and I sat in the gardens overlooking the ruin. I imagine it’s very popular in the summer months but the house is next to the ruin and offers more parking and an overflow car park. I highly recommend this ruin and the house. There are numerous opportunities for photographers to capture the still enigmatic buildings and wildlife. I’d definitely return!"
Alison Crocker
"Definitely a recommendation if you’re in Farnham. The ruins of the abbey are scattered and some parts more in tact than others, but overall impressive and interesting. The visualisations of how it looked like helpful. And for movie lovers an excellent place, certainly if combined with the Bourne Woods where the opening scene of the gladiator was filmed. The house is also beautiful."
Bart de Vos
"A free location to take a pleasant walk along the side a large lake and look at the Abbey ruins . There is a cafe now open in the big house opposite the lake . Cross over the bridge. The cafe offers some nice views on the patio of the Abbey and countryside surrounding it. The Abbey itself is little more than a ruin but enough left to be interesting."
Rospico 12
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from London Waterloo to Farnham (approx. 1 hour), then it's a short taxi ride or a longer walk to Waverley Abbey.
Yes, there is free parking available at Waverley Abbey. There's a small car park near the ruins and additional parking at Waverley Abbey House.
Yes, you can walk from Farnham to Waverley Abbey. Some visitors take a route via Moor Park Lane and Moor Park footpath.
For wheelchair users, it's crucial to follow signs for 'Historical Ruin' and avoid signs for 'Waverley Abbey/venue private' as these can lead to inaccessible areas with kissing gates.
The nearest train station is Farnham. From there, you would need to arrange onward travel by taxi or a significant walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Waverley Abbey ruins is completely free.
As an open-air historical site, Waverley Abbey is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific event times may vary.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. However, for special events like worship gatherings, you may need to sign up in advance.
Yes, the ruins of Waverley Abbey are in the care of English Heritage.
While the site is generally open, be aware of potential closures for private events or specific access issues for certain gates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the atmospheric ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian abbey, walk along the River Wey, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Absolutely! The ruins, wildlife, and scenic riverbanks offer numerous opportunities for stunning photography.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, the historical significance and visual cues within the ruins offer a self-guided exploration.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can find scenic spots around the ruins or by the river.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the ruins and running around the open spaces. The nearby cafe also makes it convenient.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located in Waverley Abbey House, opposite the ruins, offering refreshments and light meals with views of the abbey.
The cafe offers drinks, including soft drinks and ice cream, and is a pleasant spot to relax after exploring.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great option, with many scenic spots available around the abbey grounds.
Farnham town centre, a short drive or walk away, offers a variety of restaurants and pubs.
Cafe hours can vary, but it's generally open to the public and often coincides with visitor access to the grounds. It's best to check their specific opening times.
📸 📸 Photography
The crumbling arches, weathered stone walls, and the interplay of light and shadow create dramatic photographic opportunities. The river and surrounding greenery add to the scenic shots.
Yes, its atmospheric ruins and beautiful setting make it a popular and unique choice for wedding photography.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the ruins. Overcast days can also create a moody, atmospheric feel.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the environment and other visitors. It's advisable to check with English Heritage for specific regulations.
You might spot various birds, dragonflies, and geese, especially near the River Wey.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The nearby cafe at Waverley Abbey House offers a convenient place for snacks and drinks, and the surrounding nature provides opportunities for spotting wildlife. Consider combining your visit with a walk to Frensham Little Pond for more outdoor fun. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
The site's use as a film set adds an extra layer of intrigue for those interested in cinematic history. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, the ruins are managed by English Heritage and are a protected historical site. The abbey's evocative atmosphere has also made it a popular filming location, adding another layer to its rich history. Visitors can imagine the lives of the monks and the significance of this site in medieval England, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts.
Exploring the Surroundings
This makes it a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering a blend of history, nature, and even opportunities for swimming in the pond during warmer months. The River Wey flows alongside the abbey, providing a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll. The presence of wildlife, such as geese and dragonflies, adds to the serene ambiance.
Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Despite potential access challenges, the overall visitor experience is highly positive. The ruins are described as 'glorious' and 'impressive,' offering a 'large tranquil space' that provides a 'peaceful comfort.'
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit