Holme Cultram Abbey

Following a fire, set by arsonists in 2006, the repairs to one of Cumbria's largest parish churches continues and the building is once again open to visitors, who are uplifted and captivated by its remarkable space.

Abbeytown, Cumbria

Opening times

Open daily, tours given by prior arrangement.

Address

Holme Cultram
Abbeytown
Cumbria
CA7 4SD

This is not the first time this Cistercian monastery, founded in 1150 by David I of Scotland, has suffered.

In more turbulent times it was caught in the Anglo Scottish wars of the 14th century. But a good bit of luck followed the Dissolution of the Monasteries, when the local people successfully petitioned Thomas Cromwell to allow them to continue to use the church, partially as a refuge and defence against the Scots.

The rest of the abbey, however, fell into disrepair; bumps in the nearby field indicate the precinct remains, and regular archaeological excavations uncover fragments from the abbey's past.

Key features