Tewkesbury - Abbey

The pride of Tewkesbury is Tewkesbury Abbey, one of the finest Norman buildings in the country. Building began in 1092, on the site of an earlier Benedictine house and was completed in 1121. The church is of very similar size and plan to Westminster Abbey. Some of the stone used was imported from France. Particularly impressive features are the massive Norman tower (which can be climbed) and the west front with its recessed arches. In the 14th century new lierne vaulting was built over the old cylindrical pillars, the new Decorated work harmonizing well with the older structure. The transepts are Norman, with 14th century windows. The choir has Norman pillars, seven splendid windows with stained glass dated before 1430, and choir-stalls with misericords. The finest of the many tombs and monuments is the Beauchamp Chantry (about 1425), built by Isabel le Despenser over the tomb of her first husband Richard Beauchamp, Earl of Worcester. Also notable is the tomb of Hugh le Despenser (d. 1326).