Denny Abbey

Denny Abbey is a medieval monastery site with archaeological remains north of Cambridge. The location combines preserved buildings and structures with a farming museum that displays historical equipment and items from the region.

The abbey was founded in 1159 as a Benedictine monastery and later housed Knights Templars and Franciscan nuns. After dissolution in 1539, the grounds became a working farm and remained agricultural for centuries.

The grounds reveal how religious communities organized their daily lives and which spaces they needed for worship, work, and living. You can still see the different areas arranged for prayer, labor, and shelter from various periods.

The grounds are accessible for visitors to explore the ruins and museum at their own pace. A cafe and shop provide refreshments and information, while workshops are offered regularly throughout the year.

The site displays architecture from three different religious orders, including a Norman doorway and medieval floor tiles. These layers reveal how different communities shaped the place during their occupation.

Location: Waterbeach

Inception: 12 century

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/denny-abbey-and-the-farmland-museum

GPS coordinates: 52.29360,0.18654

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:28