Denny Abbey CB25 9PQ
Free for EH members
Open: Seasonal - See website
Reviews: 0

About:
Denny Abbey has a unique and fascinating history, having been occupied at various times by three different monastic orders. Founded in 1159 as a Benedictine monastery, in 1170 it was taken over by the Knights Templars and used as a home for aged and infirm members of the order. After the Templars’ suppression for alleged heresy in 1308, it became a convent of Franciscan nuns known as the Poor Clares. Following the dissolution of the nunnery in 1539 by Henry VIII, it became a farm and was in use until the late 1960s. All these changes are still traceable in the building and are interpreted for visitors by graphic panels illustrated by local artist Anne Biggs. Family-friendly activities include imaginative hands-on interactives about medieval tiles and arches. The neighbouring Farmland Museum features an extensive outdoor collection of farming machinery from the Fens, a fenman’s hut, blacksmith’s and wheelwright’s workshops, village shop display and holds information about many aspects of Cambridgeshire rural life.

Dog Friendly:
Dogs allowed on lead. 

Entry Charge:
Variable prices (see website)

Parking:
Car parking is free on site (large vehicles book in advance)  

Facilities:
Café
Shop 
Picnic area
Toilets
Museum
Exhibition
Venue Hire

Notes:
Gravel path with no steep slopes. 
Upper floor inaccessible to wheelchairs

Contact:
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk
Tel: 0370 3331181