Caldey Abbey, Tenby, United Kingdom

Caldey Abbey is a Trappist abbey situated on Caldey Island off the coast of Pembrokeshire. Caldey Island has been known as one of the centres of Cistercian activity since Celtic times and thrived during medieval Europe. However, the current abbey was built in 1910 by Anglican Benedictine monks. The abbey passed to the Trappist order in 1929. The Abbey came under scrutiny in 2017 when some historic instances of child abuse emerged.

The roofs are of white roughcast with red tiling, while the large basement arches are of brick. The abbey church has a south tower, with five side-windows, and has a 'tapering' tower with primitive crenellations. The windows are simple, with lead glazing. Originally the fittings included silver and ebony altar decorations and other luxurious items, but many were destroyed in the 1940 fire. The refectory of the Abbey was made from fine timber, and although inspired by an ancient pattern, it was modern in design. Two large water tanks underground and a narrow water shaft eliminate the threat of water scarcity in dry seasons.

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User Reviews

Keiron Jones (2 years ago)
lovely place nice boat ride there and back with such a peaceful place lovely shop's and cafe well worth a visit.

Gina Millard (2 years ago)
Beautiful place. Interesting history. Well worth the visit. Lovely short sea trip.

Paul Sturdy (2 years ago)
Excellent experience, 20 mins on the boat . Bit of a walk into the village but it's flat . There is a perfume shop a chocolate shop and the old Monks inhabitate. There is a shop selling soft drinks and sandwiches but be quick as there is usually a long queue.

Ian Whiteman (2 years ago)
Nice place to go ever so quite and views are out on this world and nice village as well to walk round as well.

emma daniels (2 years ago)
Calder Island was fantastic a lovely walk across the Island.. Fudge and chocolate to finish..worth a visit.

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