Welcome to Forde Abbey. Forde Abbey is a treasure in an area already known for its outstanding beauty. More than 900 years of history and romance are encapsulated in this elegant former Cistercian monastery and its 30 acres of award winning gardens.

The amazing variety found in this stately home makes it a wonderful place to spend a day for all ages and an ideal destination for group visits. It is also a stunning venue for weddings, receptions and private celebrations of all kinds.

However Forde Abbey is more than a museum piece. It is a family home and very much a living, working estate.

The Gardens are open daily throughout the year and at the moment we have some interesting bird-life: two drake Ring-necked Ducks, an American Wood Duck, a Gadwall, and a Goosander have been spotted, as well as pairs of Mandarin Ducks. With admission of £4 at the moment, this is the time to see something different. A Season Ticket is even better value for regular visitors, at £24/single or £39/double. Due to the mild weather, Snowdrops and Crocuses are already beginning to bloom!

Snowdrop Weekends 2012.
Every Saturday and Sunday in February 2012 should see a glorious carpet of Snowdrops in the gardens. Come and see the beautiful flower that Wordsworth called the venturous harbinger of Spring.

Forde Abbey Plant Fair, Sunday 4th March 2012.
There will be hundreds of plants and garden sundries to look at - and buy - to inspire gardeners everywhere.

Crocus Week, Sunday 4th to Sunday 11th March.
Come and see these beautiful jewel-like flowers, glowing in the grass, to lift your spirits and give hope for the year to come.

The Tearoom and Gift Shop will be open.

Forde Abbey & Gardens, Near Chard, TA20 4LU