Woburn Abbey, located in Bedfordshire, England, is a stately home and one of the most famous historic houses in the world. It is one of the UK’s most iconic heritage sites and tourist attractions, and is a British landmark. Woburn Abbey has been the ancestral home of the Dukes of Bedford for more than 300 years and is still home to the current Duke and Duchess of Bedford and their family.
History of Woburn Abbey
Woburn Abbey was first built in 1145 as a Cistercian abbey. It was founded by Cistercian monks from the nearby Abbey of St. Mary of Cirencester. The abbey was destroyed during the dissolution of the monasteries in 1547 and the building was then acquired by John Russell, the 1st Earl of Bedford. The Russell family transformed the abbey into a stately home and the property has remained in their family ever since.
Attractions at Woburn Abbey
Woburn Abbey is a popular tourist attraction and there are plenty of things to see and do. Visitors can explore the historic house and gardens, take a guided tour of the abbey, and visit the nearby Safari Park. The abbey is also home to an impressive art collection and a museum.
What to Expect
Visitors to Woburn Abbey can expect a unique and unforgettable experience. The abbey is a beautiful and historic building with a fascinating history and plenty of things to see and do. The abbey is open to the public and visitors can explore the grounds and gardens, take a guided tour, and visit the museum and art collection.
Tours
Guided tours of Woburn Abbey are available and are a great way to learn more about the history of the abbey and the Russell family. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will provide an insight into the abbey’s history and show visitors the many fascinating features of the house.
Admission
Admission to Woburn Abbey is free for all visitors. However, there is a charge for the guided tours and for entry to the Safari Park.
Tips for Tourists
When visiting Woburn Abbey, here are some tips to help make your visit more enjoyable:
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen if visiting in the summer.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
- Allow plenty of time to explore the abbey and grounds.
- Book a guided tour to learn more about the history of the abbey.
Practical Information
Woburn Abbey is open to the public from 10am to 5pm daily (except Christmas Day). The address is Woburn Abbey, Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9WA. The nearest train station is Woburn Sands, which is a 10-minute drive from the abbey. There is a car park at the abbey for visitors who are driving.
Conclusion
Woburn Abbey is a stunning stately home and one of the UK’s most iconic heritage sites. It is a beautiful and historic building with a fascinating history and plenty of things to see and do. Visitors can explore the abbey and its grounds, take a guided tour, and visit the museum and art collection. Woburn Abbey is a great day out and an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
