Forde Abbey
Dorset, England
Key facts
- Operator
- Roper family
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
Pinpoint
Forde Abbey, Chard TA20 4LU
Forde Abbey is a former Cistercian monastery converted into a country house, privately owned since the 17th century. Most reviews focus on the roughly thirty acres of gardens, with repeated mentions of the water fountain, the walled kitchen garden and glasshouses, and a plant nursery to buy from. The cafe and staff are also praised, though several visitors arrived to find the house itself shut.
Worth the trip
The gardens - reviewers describe them as outstanding and well maintained, with the fountain the moment most of them remember.
Before you go
Reviewers repeatedly mention that the house opens on fewer days than the gardens, so check before travelling if you want to see inside.
Reviewers describe extensive, immaculately kept gardens covering many acres, with the twice-daily fountain repeatedly named as the highlight. The kitchen and walled vegetable gardens, dahlias, bog garden, lakes and arboretum are all mentioned, along with a plant nursery, gift shop and a cafe that reviewers praise for food and friendly service. Dogs on leads are noted as welcome in the gardens. Several visitors found the house itself closed on the day they came, as it opens only on certain days, and were happy enough with the gardens and exterior; those who did get inside recommend the house and chapel, particularly the tapestries.
Former Cistercian monastery converted into a country house, privately owned since the 17th century.
“This place is a must see venue. The forth generation still resides at the property. The 30 acre garden is beautiful with lovely autumn colours. The pumpkin rolling idea is great for kids to take part in on the front…”- Phil E, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Facilities
- “Definitely recommend the cafe for super staff and service, and very tasty home made sausage rolls and egg sandwiches with fresh bread and good salads.” - Mike Watson
Common questions about Forde Abbey
Where is Forde Abbey?
Forde Abbey is in Dorset, England, at Forde Abbey, Chard TA20 4LU.
Do you need a ticket to visit Forde Abbey?
Yes - Forde Abbey is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Roper family. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
Is Forde Abbey dog-friendly?
Visitor reviews suggest dogs are welcome at Forde Abbey - one reviewer noted: “…s parkland, rockeries and an arboretum. Dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens. The abbey and gardens are open in spring, s…”. Policies can vary between parts of a site and change over time, so confirm with the operator before visiting with a dog.
What is the highlight of visiting Forde Abbey?
The gardens - reviewers describe them as outstanding and well maintained, with the fountain the moment most of them remember.
Is Forde Abbey a ruin or still intact?
Forde Abbey is largely intact - Former Cistercian monastery converted into a country house, privately owned since the 17th century.
