Stapehill Abbey |
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For nearly 200 years, Stapehill Abbey was a place of quiet retreat and meditation locked away from the outside world, Home to a Silent Order of Nuns.
Today you can still experience the peace and serenity in the fully-restored Nun's Chapel, stroll at leisure around the Cloisters that still bear the traces of the Nuns' frequent journeys to and from daily prayers. These early nineteenth century buildings are the perfect location to exhibit our Victorian parlour, kitchen and washroom, which depict domestic life at the beginning of the last century.
The Gardens
Throughout the year the gardens offer a spectacular array of colour. These award-winning gardens range from the
elegant simplicity of the Rose Garden to the spontaneous beauty of the Cottage Garden. Stroll through our Wisteria and Laburnum walkways, or sit awhile under the rose-covered arbour around one of the fountains. Feel at peace in the Cloister Garden, or marvel at the plants in the Tropical Hothouse. The Japanese, is a favourite with the visitors.The Museum
The Countryside Museum is a unique opportunity to discover rural life from a bygone age. Covering an area of 12,000 sq. ft., this renowned agricultural display charts more than a century's development from man to machinery - horse-drawn to horse-power! There are
also many recreated period workshops and High Street shops; see the Blacksmith at his anvil; or gaze in wonder at the array of pills and potions at the Chemist's shop.Home Farm
The farmyard is planned as a living extension to the Countryside Museum, and contains many interesting old farm implements and traditional carts in and around the sheds and stables. Because of the variety of domestic animals you find on Home Farm, throughout the year you may discover a pig with her piglets, or a hen with her chicks. Although you are free to wander amongst all the traditional farm animals, we are careful to ensure that none
are frightened or distressed by close human contact. Throughout the year, weather permitting, there are pony rides available for younger children.Arts and Crafts
Stapehill has always been a centre for rural craftsmanship, a tradition that is continued today by our resident craftspeople. They produce a wide variety of handmade goods and their workmanship can often be viewed in the production process. Throughout the year there are many special events at Stapehill. Our Spring and Autumn Craft Fairs host a variety of visiting craftspeople. Christmas at Stapehill is a magical experience for all, when the Abbey is brought alive with the sounds of choirs and bellringers for a truly memorable festive season.
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Opening Times
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(2006 times)
1st April to 30th September: Daily 10.00am - 5.00pm.1st October to 31st March: Wednesday to Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm. (Closed Christmas Holidays to end of January). |
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Admission Charges
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(2006 prices)
Adult £7.50; Senior Citizen £7.00; Child £4.50; Family Tickets from £12.00.Groups and Function booking details and education packs available on request. We are happy to quote for special catering requirements. Season Tickets are valid for one year from date of issue. Please telephone for details. |
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Directions
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| Close to Bournemouth and Poole, on Wimborne Road West, between Ferndown and Wimborne. Bus routes 132 and 133 from Bournemouth and Poole. |
| Show map of Stapehill Abbey... |
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Nearby Attractions
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Knoll Gardens
(1 Mile)*
Within a superb framework of mature trees and shrubs there is a wealth of colour and form throughout the season - bright colours of early spring through to autumn's mellow hues. |
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Priest's House Museum
(2 Miles)*
The Priest's House is an historic town house dating from the 16th century. This Grade II* listed building retains many original architectural features. |
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Kingston Lacy
(4 Miles)*
Kingston Lacy is a magnificent mansion with important collections, set in attractive formal gardens and parkland. |
| more nearby attractions... |
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Nearby Hotels
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Nearby Self Catering
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