Visit Anglesey Abbey in Cambridgeshire. Explore its Jacobean mansion, historic gardens, and the legacy of Lord Fairhaven in this National Trust treasure.

From Priory to Country House

Anglesey Abbey, near Cambridge, began life as a 12th-century Augustinian priory. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it was transformed into a private home. The current mansion, rebuilt in Jacobean style, became the residence of Huttleston Broughton, 1st Baron Fairhaven, who restored and expanded the estate in the 20th century.

A Timeless Treasure Near Cambridge

Tucked away just five miles from Cambridge, Anglesey Abbey combines historic grandeur with natural beauty. Once a medieval monastery, later transformed into a Jacobean country house, it now stands as one of Cambridgeshire’s most elegant estates.

Owned and managed by the National Trust, Anglesey Abbey offers a rich blend of art, architecture, and landscaped gardens, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

From Priory to Jacobean Masterpiece

Originally founded in the 12th century as an Augustinian priory, Anglesey Abbey was later converted into a private residence following the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII.

In the 17th century, it became a Jacobean manor house, blending medieval stonework with new architectural features. Its current form owes much to Lord Fairhaven, who purchased the property in 1926 and restored it to its former glory.

He filled the house with fine furniture, paintings, and antiques, turning it into both a home and a museum of English taste — an atmosphere that remains beautifully preserved today.

Exploring Anglesey Abbey
1. The House

Step inside and explore rooms that reflect 400 years of history. Highlights include the Long Gallery, filled with portraits and sculptures, and the Library, lined with rare books and comfortable armchairs.

Each room showcases Lord Fairhaven’s meticulous eye for design — combining Georgian elegance with Jacobean charm.

2. The Gardens

Covering over 100 acres, the gardens are a masterpiece of design. They feature formal avenues, ornamental statues, and seasonal displays that change with the year.

In spring, tulips and magnolias fill the grounds with colour. Summer brings blooming roses and lush lawns, while autumn sets the estate ablaze with golden foliage. The Winter Garden — one of the finest in Britain — bursts with vibrant textures even on the coldest days.

3. Lode Mill

Don’t miss Lode Mill, the working watermill on the River Cam that still grinds flour today. Its rhythmic turning and rustic charm connect visitors to the Abbey’s agricultural past.

If you enjoy heritage estates, you might also love Audley End House & Gardens
— nearby National Trust treasure.

Art, Collections, and Heritage

Inside Anglesey Abbey, art lovers will find an extraordinary collection of paintings, tapestries, and silverware. Lord Fairhaven’s interest in British history shines through every detail, from the grand portraits to the delicate ceramics displayed in the drawing rooms.

Moreover, the Abbey houses an impressive clock collection, reflecting the owner’s fascination with precision and craftsmanship — a fitting metaphor for his careful restoration of this historic home.

Visiting Anglesey Abbey

Address: Quy Road, Lode, Cambridge, CB25 9EJ

By car: Off the A14; parking on-site.

By bus: Services run from Cambridge to Lode village.

By bike: Easily reached via the National Cycle Network Route 11.

Opening Hours:
Open year-round; hours vary seasonally. Managed by the National Trust.

Learn more at the National Trust official website

Nearby Attractions

Wimpole Estate: A grand 18th-century mansion with a working farm.

Cambridge: Explore the colleges, museums, and riverside walks.

Ely Cathedral: A masterpiece of medieval architecture nearby.

Anglesey Woodland Trail: Ideal for peaceful countryside walks.

Together, they make a delightful Cambridgeshire heritage itinerary.

Why Visit Anglesey Abbey?

Anglesey Abbey offers a rare combination of history, art, and nature. Whether you come for the grand Jacobean interiors, the tranquil gardens, or the gentle hum of Lode Mill, every corner reflects centuries of beauty and craftsmanship.

Step into a world of timeless elegance and experience one of Cambridgeshire’s finest National Trust estates.