About Tewkesbury Abbey

Today in the peace of this beautiful church, it is difficult to believe that it has seen great violence and tragedy. In 1471, after the Battle of Tewkesbury, the defeated Lancastrian soldiers seeking sanctuary in the Church, were massacred by the victorious Yorkists.
Each day Tewkesbury Abbey welcomes many visitors, some to marvel at its history, some to pray. A former Benedictine Abbey Church, consecrated in 1121, it is reputed to be the second largest parish church in England larger than fourteen cathedrals, and has the highest Norman tower in the country. Inside Tewkesbury Abbey visitors can enjoy a rich architectural and artistic heritage, including medieval stained glass, exquisitely sculptured tombs and chantry chapels and the 17th century Milton organ, reputedly the oldest in the country still in daily use. Other features of interest are some of the finest roof bosses in England.