Valle Crucis Abbey is not the largest ruined abbey that you will see, but it does manage to retain an air of the magical about it, despite the enormous caravan park shoehorned into the valley right next to it. Luckily, you are not too aware of that once inside the abbey walls and the outside world fades into the background as you tread the hallowed ground.
It's managed by CADW, so there is a modest entrance charge, although you will get free entry if you belong to English Heritage or Historic Scotland.
Although the main abbey is largely ruined, there are some intact areas remaining, like the chapter house with its wonderful nine-sectioned vaulted roof. Upstairs there is a long gallery containing some carved grave slabs, some of which are reputed to be Templar. Indeed, this abbey has a possible claim to having once housed the Grail - or at least A Grail.
Also upstairs is the Abbot's quarters and monks' dormitory. There's not much to be seen other than an interesting carved chimney breast in the former, but the place does still have an atmosphere.
Outside, the remains of the cloisters and the rest of the buildings are pretty minimal, but on a nice sunny day it's very pleasant to walk around or just sit in the sun.
Venture farther towards the rear and you'll find a fine example of an abbey fish pond, one of the few remaining. A house in the grounds contains a small art exhibit and a video tour of a virtual reconstruction of the abbey.
Parking is limited to around 6 cars, although there are plenty of other spots along the access road that you can find a place. The caravan park building at the top of the road contains an excellent pub and cafe that serves a variety of food, including a choice of three veggie meals. Just the job for lunch after our abbey tour. read more