Due to the weather, the ground at Bayham Old Abbey is sodden Please take extra care when on site, the ground may be slippery and rutted in places Please wear sensible footwear when visiting the site
Free Entry
29 Mar to 3 Nov daily 10am-5pm or dusk if earlier
Address:
Furnace Lane, Little Bayham, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8LP
Bayham Abbey makes a fascinating day out on the Kent Sussex border. The impressive ruins, built from golden local sandstone, include much of the 13th to 15th-century church, the chapter house, and a picturesque 14th-century gatehouse. Bayham Abbey is now set in grounds designed by famous landscape gardener Humphry Repton, who also planned the grounds of Kenwood House in London.
Before You Go
Opening times: During 2024 the abbey is open daily from Good Friday on 29th March to 3rd November from 10am to 5pm, or until dusk if earlier. Short talks are available on Saturdays between these dates from 11am to 3pm. The bookshop is temporarily closed while we carry out some maintenance work.
Parking: There is a small car park on site about 25 metres from the entrance with a loose gravel surface.
There is a £2 charge for non-members payable by text. Parking is free for Members with a valid English Heritage car sticker on display. If you would prefer to pay in advance of your visit, please visit our parking payment service website.
Access: Wheelchair users should note that the abbey remains are mostly accessible from grassed areas onto loose gravel. Pushchairs are allowed, but please be aware that there are some areas of rough grass.
Facilities: There are no facilities on site but there are villages within 4 miles such as Lamberhurst or Frant where you will find shops and places to eat.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.
Please be aware: Climbing on the ruins is prohibited.
Drone flying: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions. Please see our drone filming guidelines for more details, or email our Filming team.
Plan a Great Day Out
If you're heading towards East Sussex, be sure to visit the 1066 Battle of Hastings Abbey & Battlefield with its new sculpture trail, rooftop views, and exhibition, and discover more about medieval monastic life. You can also explore Pevensey Castle, site of William the Conqueror's landing in 1066, only 19 miles away from Bayham.
