Tintern Abbey

From Wyndcliff return to the main road and continue for 2mi/3km north to reach the attractive ruins of Tintern Abbey, whose appearance inspired William Wordsworth, the "Lake Poet", to write some of his poetry. The abbey is situated on the west bank of the meandering Wye and was founded in 1131 by Walter de Clare for the Cistercian order. The church is in the Decorated style (1270-1325) and measures 228ft/69.5m long. Like many other churches, Tintern Abbey fell victim to Henry VIII's secularization. However, even if the roof, central tower and north wall of the nave have disappeared, the remaining majestic arches with richly embellished tracery on the windows nevertheless present a notable appearance and this has been captured in a number of very idyllic paintings by artists including William Turner. An exhibition in the adjoining visitors' center explains how the monks used to live.