Torre Abbey Historic House & Gallery
Since its foundation in 1196, Torre Abbey has witnessed, survived and even played a role in some epic moments of history. But through all that, the one thing that has never changed is the hospitality offered to its guests.
The Abbey was purchased by the local authority for £40,000, in 1930, for use as an art gallery. Part of the need for this was created when the widow of prominent Victorian sculptor Frederick Thrupp gifted much of his surviving work to the town. Actually the largest surviving collection from a Victorian sculptor's studio, his work today takes centre stage within a fine-art collection which also boasts a collection of pictures including Pre-Raphaelite works of national standing, such as Holman Hunt's "The Children's Holiday", Edward Burne-Jones’ cartoons and William Blake’s for the "Book of Job".
Part-gallery, part-museum, and part-historic house, Torre Abbey nevertheless found itself heading towards the new millennium with a detailed surveyor's report which revealed that works on a frightening scale would be needed just to keep the building standing. Now, as the result of a £6-million restoration project, completed in July 2008, a completely new generation of visitors will receive the very special Torre Abbey welcome as they step inside this precious building to experience and discover 800 years of history.
THE GARDENS:
With a wealth of exotic and exciting plants, Torre Abbey Gardens, nestles behind the main building of the Abbey.
Here you can walk through the ruins of the original church, discover 12th century architecture and tombs and contemplate life as a medieval monk . Or be enthralled by the rare and often strange shrubs and plants that we are able to grow in our mild English Riviera climate.
In Summer massed dahlia borders take centre stage along with the many herbaceous perennials, roses and herbs that make English gardens rightfully famous and delight the senses.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
February 2010 - 10am -5pm (*4pm), closed Mondays
March to October 2010 - open daily, 10am - 6pm (*5pm)
November/December 2010 - 10am -5pm (*4pm), closed Mondays
(*last admission)
| Prices |
| Adults |
£5.75 |
| Concessions |
£4.80 |
| Children |
£2.45 |
| Under 5s |
FREE |
| Family (2 AD + 3 CH) |
£14.50 |
| Disabled Carers |
FREE |
Group Visits:
Group rates are available for groups of 10 or more:
adult £4.50 (no concessions)
child £2.00.
Combine your visit with afternoon tea or a delicious lunch in the café.
Coaches may drop off in the Abbey grounds. Coach parking is behind Torquay Coach Station (off Hennapyn Road).
The Cafe:
Flying Aubergine are bringing the original Torre Abbey kitchen back to life as a stylish new Cafe.
With a cast iron cooking range filling one whole wall, the roots of the kitchen are clear and Flying Aubergine’s commitment to fresh, organic and local food brings you a menu that reflects the kitchen’s original purpose and values while satisfying today’s lifestyle dining.
Situated at the front of the Abbey the Café is open all day and has its own entrance so you don’t have to enter the Abbey to keep enjoying the experience.
Disable Access:
Disabled visitors receive a concessionary entrance price and carers are free of charge.
There is level access to the undercrofts, visitor entrance and cafe and ample disabled toilets.
A new glass lift takes visitors to most other areas of the attraction including the galleries.
Getting Here:
By Train
Torre Abbey is 10 minutes walk from Torquay Rail Station (not Torre).
From the station head NE along the seafront then approach the Abbey along The King’s Drive.
By Bus
The Abbey is 5 minutes walk from all seafront bus routes.
In summer the English Riviera Tour bus and the Torquay road train will call in to the Abbey grounds.
Address:
Torre Abbey Historic House and Gallery
The King’s Drive
Torquay
TQ2 5JE
Devon, England.