Haughmond Abbey

Haughmond Abbey (locally HOE-mənd) is a ruined, medieval, Augustinian monastery a few miles from Shrewsbury, England. It was probably founded in the early 12th century and was closely associated with the FitzAlan family, who became Earls of Arundel, and some of their wealthier vassals and allies. It was a substantial, successful and wealthy house for most of its four centuries, although evidence of abuses appeared before its dissolution in 1539. The buildings fell into disrepair and the church was largely destroyed, although the remains of some of the domestic buildings remain impressive. The site is now in the care of English Heritage and is open to the public throughout the year and free entry. There is a small Visitor Centre on site with an interesting exhibition of the Abbey. The visitor centre is opened and staffed by a team of volunteers daily between 11am and 3pm (times and opening may vary due to volunteer availability). The site is open from 10am until 6pm (Apr-Oct) and 10am until 4pm (Nov-Mar).