

Explore historic Abbey Gardens with children's play areas, sensory gardens, and 11th-century monastery ruins set alongside the River Lark.
Venue Type
Outdoor
Typical visit duration
All day
Booking
Walk-in
Recommended ages
0 months (newborn)+
Refreshment kiosk offering beverages and snacks
Hours: 1 February to 30 September: Monday to Friday 9:30am-5pm, Saturday-Sunday 9:30am-5:30pm; 1 October to 31 January: Daily 10am-4pm (call 01284 653788 to confirm as times may change)
Visit websiteAbsolutely beautiful place! 🌸🌿 The gardens are very well maintained, peaceful and full of lovely little spots to explore. The Abbey ruins add so much history and character. A perfect place for a relaxing walk, taking photos or simply enjoying the surroundings. We really enjoyed our visit and would definitely recommend Abbey Gardens.
We stopped in Bury Saint Edmunds for 2 1/2 hours on a Coach journey for our drivers mandatory break and much to our delight found that we were parked up next to the Abbey Gardens. These are a beautiful mix of formal gardens, well maintained ruins of the Old Abbey buildings, and open area, next to the cathedral which we were unable to visit as a funeral was being conducted at the time. Nevertheless, the gardens were well worth the visit and we have resolved that at a future date we will return to do them greater justice and to take in the Abbey. Visiting this garden is strongly recommended, and attached to The Abbey is an excellent restaurant come coffee shop.
We visited Abbey Gardens on April 11th as the final stop on the last day of our trip, and it was hands-down the highlight of our journey. I have seen many parks and gardens over the years, but this is easily one of the finest. The grass is elegantly manicured, and the entire area is impeccably maintained, not a single piece of trash anywhere. Bravo There is something here for every age group to enjoy: Abbey Gate & Abbey Ruins: Breathtaking 11th-century history where history comes alive. This site is famously tied to 1214, when the barons met here before forcing King John to accept the Magna Carta. Magna Carta Memorial: A historic highlight located right within the grounds. Appleby Rose Garden & Water Garden: Serene, beautifully designed spaces that offer peaceful surroundings. Kids Play Area: Exceptionally modern and equipped with the latest play equipment—perfect for families. A Rich History: Originally designed in 1831 by Nathaniel Ward (modeled after the Royal Botanical Gardens in Brussels), the gardens masterfully weave centuries of heritage into a living sanctuary. Visitor Information: Opening Times: Opens at 7:30 AM Monday through Saturday, and 9:00 AM on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Closing Times: Closes at dusk (ranging seasonally from 4:30 PM in mid-winter to around 8:00 PM in peak summer). Whether you are a history lover, a family with children, or someone who simply appreciates pristine green spaces, Abbey Gardens is a must-visit in Bury St Edmunds.
Had to visit this site on my St Edmund pilgrimage, our original Saint before St George, but still the patron saint of Suffolk. St Edmund’s remains were bought here in 903 and it became a pilgrimage site, the Abbey was founded in 1020 but fell into ruin with the dissolution of the monasteries. There is a project due to start in spring 26’ for 2 years to tie in the Cathedral and the remains which are under stress from the environment so hopefully it will be nice to visit again. The area is really nice and the flower beds were stunning.
Flour in Wells-next-the-Sea is a very nice place to visit. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The food is delicious, especially the pizzas, which are fresh and full of flavour. The staff are friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. It’s a great spot to stop by when visiting Wells, and I would definitely come back again. Highly recommended!
Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026
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This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026
