

13th-century Cistercian abbey

Once a Cistercian abbey, founded in 1246 by Richard of Cornwall and dissolved Christmas Eve 1539, Hailes never housed large numbers of monks but had extensive and elaborate buildings.

It was financed by pilgrims visiting its renowned relic, 'the Holy Blood of Hailes' - allegedly a phial of Christ's blood.

Hailes Abbey is owned by the National Trust, but maintained and managed by English Heritage. Please visit their website for more information and visiting times.