Bayham Old Abbey

Free Entry

1 Apr - 31 Oct, daily 10am-5pm or dusk if earlier

Address:

Furnace Lane, Little Bayham, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8LP

Before You Go

Bayham Abbey makes a fascinating day out on the Kent Sussex border. The impressive ruins, built from golden local sandstone, include much of the 13th to 15th-century church, the chapter house, and a picturesque 14th-century gatehouse. Bayham Abbey is now set in grounds designed by famous landscape gardener Humphry Repton, who also planned the grounds of Kenwood House in London.

Before You Go

Opening times: The abbey is open daily from 10am to 4pm, or dusk if earlier during  October . Bookshop open every Friday & Saturday 11am-3pm and short talks availible Saturdays 11am - 3pm. 

Parking: There is a small car park on site about 25 metres from the entrance with a loose gravel surface.

There is a £2 charge for non-members payable by text. Parking is free for Members with a valid English Heritage car sticker on display. If you would prefer to pay in advance of your visit, please visit our parking payment service website.

Access: Wheelchair users should note that the abbey is mostly accessible from grassed areas onto loose gravel. Pushchairs are allowed, but please be aware that there are some areas of rough grass.

Facilities: There are no facilities on site but there are villages within 4 miles such as Lamberhurst or Frant where you will find shops and places to eat. 

Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.

Please be aware: Climbing on the ruins is prohibited.

Drone flying: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions. Please see our drone filming guidelines for more details, or email our Filming team.

Plan a Great Day Out

If you're heading towards East Sussex, be sure to visit the 1066 Battle of Hastings Abbey & Battlefield with its new sculpture trail, rooftop views, and exhibition, and discover more about medieval monastic life. You can also explore Pevensey Castle, site of William the Conqueror's landing in 1066, only 19 miles away from Bayham. 

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