Croxden Abbey: A Ruined Cistercian Monastery

Croxden Abbey (see Figure 1), a once-thriving Cistercian monastery outside Croxden in Staffordshire, England, is a testament to the strength of community and shared purpose. Founded in 1176 by local landowner Bertram de Verdun and consecrated in 1188, the abbey was more than a religious institution. It was a home, a workplace, and a sanctuary for those seeking a life of devotion and connection. Today, its ruins—now preserved by English Heritage—echo the stories of those who lived, worked and prayed within its walls.

A Religious Community Built on Faith and Labour

For over 350 years, Croxden Abbey was where monks dedicated themselves to worship and labour, engaging in wool production and agriculture to sustain their community. Their daily lives revolved around collective effort, emphasising cooperation and mutual support. The abbots, respected leaders of this community, played key roles in advising local lords and bishops, further embedding the abbey into the fabric of the wider society.

However, the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538 under King Henry VIII shattered this tightly knit religious community. Stripped of its resources and abandoned, the abbey fell into ruin, a stark reminder of how political shifts can disrupt even the most deeply rooted communal bonds. Despite its decline, the abbey’s legacy endures. Today, visitors can explore a past where faith and labour bound a community together (see Figures 2 & 3).

Exploring the Ruins of Croxden Abbey

Despite centuries of decay, Croxden Abbey remains an awe-inspiring site. Its soaring sandstone arches and partially preserved walls hint at the grandeur of its medieval past (see Figure 4). Furthermore, visitors can walk among the remnants of the church, chapter house, and other monastic buildings, imagining the daily routines of the monks who once called this place home. Open to the public year-round, the abbey provides a serene and atmospheric setting to explore England’s monastic heritage.

Capturing Croxden Abbey on 35mm

In the early 2000s, I photographed Croxden Abbey using Polaroid 200 35mm colour film with my Pentax MZ-50 SLR camera. These pre-digital era photos preserve the textures, colours, and play of light that make the ruins so captivating.

Lastly, below are more film photos, each offering a unique perspective on Croxden Abbey’s enduring charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of medieval architecture, or enjoy the tranquillity of historic sites, Croxden Abbey remains a compelling destination worth visiting.