Croxden Abbey: Discovering England

Croxden Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery near the village of Croxden in Staffordshire, England. The religious building was founded in 1176 by Bertram de Verdun, a local landowner, and consecrated in 1188. Here is a selection of photos of the abbey, now in the care of English Heritage, taken with 35mm colour film (i.e., Polaroid 200) circa 2000.

About Croxden Abbey

For a long time, the abbey in Croxden was a prosperous and influential institution known for its wool production and agricultural activities. The building also played a role in the political and religious affairs of the region, with its abbots often serving as advisors to local lords and bishops.

However, like many other monasteries in England, Croxden Abbey was dissolved by King Henry VIII in 1538 as part of the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Later, a local landowner bought the abbey, stripped much of the lead from the roof and demolished many buildings, leaving only the ruins that remain today.

Despite its ruined state, the abbey remains an impressive site. Its imposing sandstone walls and soaring arches provide a glimpse into the grandeur of the abbey’s past. Today, English Heritage manage the abbey, which is open to visitors all year round. Moreover, the location offers a fascinating insight into the history and architecture of medieval monastic life in England.

More Photos of Croxden Abbey, England

Lastly, check out more photos I took of the abbey below using Polaroid 200 35mm colour film in 2000 (pre-digital era) using the Pentaz MZ-50 SLR camera. It may have been a budget camera, but it took good pictures.