Bury St Edmunds Abbey
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Located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, the abbey was once one of the richest and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England. Its remains are extensive and include the complete 14th century Great Gate and Norman Tower, as well as the impressive ruins and altered west front of the immense church. The relics of the martyred Anglo-Saxon king St Edmund, whose remains were moved to this site in 903, and his shrine became a place of pilgrimage. The abbey itself was founded in 1020 and grew in power and wealth up until its suppression in 1539. Managed by St Edmundsbury Borough Council. Read more about the history of Bury St Edmunds Abbey. Before You Go Access: The abbey can be reached on foot through the Abbey Gate and gardens. Parts of the site are uneven and can become muddy. Parking: There is a charged car park opposite the Abbey Gate, not managed by English Heritage. School Visits/Large Groups: Please contact St Edmundsbury Borough Council on 0128 476 4667. Plan a Great Day Out 11 miles from the abbey is Thetford Priory, the burial site of the earls and dukes of Norfolk for nearly 400 years. Within a stone's throw of the priory is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the only surviving remains of a priory of the Canons of the Holy Sepulchre in England. An hour's drive from the abbey is Framlingham Castle. It was here that Mary Tudor was proclaimed Queen in 1553 during the succession crisis that followed Edward VI's death. Enjoy the spectacular views from the castle wall walk or visit the colourful exhibition. Opening Times 30 April 2017 - 24 March 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 March 2018 onwards Opening times will be available nearer the time | |||||||||||||||||||||||