HARTLAND ABBEY & GARDENS

Founded by Augustinian monks in 1157

The Abbey itself isn’t always open to the public as it is a favourite filming location so do check before travelling.  However, there is much else to see at a reduced ticket price.

When you visit North Devon, a trip to the village of Hartland, the Abbey and Gardens and Hartland Quay is a must!  The beauty of the landscape and the family history dating back to Henry VII is fascinating quite apart from the fantastic gardens that are impeccably managed by a team of very knowledgeable dedicated gardeners.  Follow that with a wonderful woodland walk to the beach at Blackpool Mill.  There are regular special events at the Abbey and coming up this summer is Open Air Theatre including The Wind in the Willows (31st July), The Tempest (14th August) and Midsummer Night’s Dream & Twelfth Night (21st August). Check out the website for more information: http://www.hartlandabbey.com.

Hartland Quay has its own Shipwreck Museum which tells the story of four centuries of shipwrecks, heroic rescues, maritime trading, smuggling and destruction by the sea.  The hospitality at the Hartland Quay Hotel and the Wreckers Retreat Bar offer a fabulous setting for a meal watching the sunset over Lundy Island or in wild weather the huge waves provide a spectacle!