Torre Abbey dates back to 1196 with an order of Premonstratensian monks. After the disollution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII in 1536, the Cary family came to the Abbey in 1662 and resided there until 1930 when, as it was too expensive to maintain, they handed it to the Council.
This Ancient Scheduled Monument has beautifully presented heritage rooms, galleries, art exhibitions, interactive displays, talking portraits and videos which bring the Abbey’s colour history and art to life.
With over 600 incredible works of art from the 18th century to the present day, the Abbey’s collection includes Pre-Raphaelite works including Holman Hunt’s 'The Children’s Holiday' and Burne-Jones’ drawings for 'The Planets'.
Highlights are the watercolours by Thomas Luny and FJ Widgery and a rare proof set of William Blake’s 'The Book of Job'.
It's history is wonderfully displayed throughout the Abbey - the early history of the monastery on the entrance floor and then up to the top floor, once the servants' quarters (there is a lift) where you're guided round the whole floor by various forms of animation - a knight in armour will talk to you, as will various portraits when you press a button. You'll probably want to spend more time here than you can really afford. It's in here that George Cary will tell you the fascinating history of the Barn which it now known as The Spanish Barn.
Down to the next floor where the dining room is beautifully laid out - but, where are the voices coming from? the room is deserted. Walking over to the dining table you'll find that the plates are having a dinner party conversation! Horatio Nelson, once a dinner guest of the Cary Family, is present at the table.
On this floor you'll find plenty of art - one of the little rooms is dedicated to Edward Burne-Jones including some of his stained glass windows and seven of the nine original drawings for them.
As mentioned earlier, there are many other artists represented within the Abbey - and those that don't have a wall space are hanging wardrobe style in a separate area which can be accessed by appointment.
There is so much more to discover - you'll need to allow considerable time to it.