Sibton Abbey

Sibton Abbey comprises the remains of a Cistercian monastery with stone walls, arches, and foundations scattered across the grounds near the River Yox in Suffolk. The surviving structures display the characteristic features of medieval religious architecture.

The abbey was founded in 1150 by William de Chesney and operated as a Cistercian monastery until Henry VIII ordered its closure in 1536 during the Dissolution of Monasteries. This closure ended centuries of monastic life at the site.

The ruins display Norman architectural features with rounded arches and thick stone walls typical of 12th-century religious buildings. You can see the craftsmanship in the stonework, which reflects the skill of the medieval builders.

The site is privately owned by the Levett-Scrivener family, so visitors need special permission to access the grounds. It is wise to arrange this in advance before planning your visit.

This was the only Cistercian abbey ever built in Suffolk, and a dining hall from the 12th century still survives. This rarity makes the site particularly interesting for historians and researchers, as such monasteries were uncommon in this region.

Location: Sibton

Inception: 12 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 52.27540,1.46535

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:02