Haverfordwest Priory (Cadw)Historic SiteExcavations begun in the 1980s revealed many long-hidden secrets of this ruined priory on the banks of the River Cleddau just outside Haverfordwest’s town walls. It was probably founded for Augustinian canons in the late 12th or early 13th centuries, and parts of the church (including the site of the high altar), chapter house and cloister can be seen.
But the priory’s star feature is its restored garden, the only surviving ecclesiastical medieval garden in Britain, replanted to resemble its look and fragrance in medieval times. This prized ‘pleasure garden’, a place of enjoyment as well as contemplation, was a rarity in monastic circles, a reflection of the priory’s notable wealth. Artefacts from the excavations are on display at the Haverfordwest Town Museum.Quay StreetHaverfordwestPembrokeshireSA61 1BEUnited Kingdom51.799276100000-4.966249700000http://www.showmewales.co.uk/?dms=3&venue=1123584
Haverfordwest Priory (Cadw)
Historic Site, free entry
Haverfordwest Priory
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Details
Excavations begun in the 1980s revealed many long-hidden secrets of this ruined priory on the banks of the River Cleddau just outside Haverfordwest’s town walls. It was probably founded for Augustinian canons in the late 12th or early 13th centuries, and parts of the church (including the site of the high altar), chapter house and cloister can be seen.
But the priory’s star feature is its restored garden, the only surviving ecclesiastical medieval garden in Britain, replanted to resemble its look and fragrance in medieval times. This prized ‘pleasure garden’, a place of enjoyment as well as contemplation, was a rarity in monastic circles, a reflection of the priory’s notable wealth. Artefacts from the excavations are on display at the Haverfordwest Town Museum.
Opening Details
Open all the time
Daily 10.00am - 4.00pm. Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January. Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Haverfordwest Priory (Cadw)
Haverfordwest Priory (Cadw)
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Plan route using Google maps
Local Accommodation
Accepts groups
Children welcome
Dogs not accepted (except guidedogs)
Smoking not allowed
