Lilleshall Abbey—it is free to enter, English Heritage site, and is quiet compared to busier historical sites. The abbey has a rich history dating back to around 1148 when it was founded for a community of Augustinian canons. By the 13th century, it had grown into a prestigious religious center, even hosting King Henry III on two occasions. Following Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1538, the estate was sold to the Leveson family and converted into a private residence. It was fortified for the Royalists during the English Civil War, but fell after a heavy Parliamentarian siege in 1645, leaving behind the dramatic red sandstone ruins that stand today. Parking was a bit tight, maybe get 3 or 4 cars in the small parking area. The site is in the middle of the countryside.

There is no parking onsite, only a small layby for around 3-4 cars. But... absolutely stunning ruins! There's a spiral staircase that leads to nowhere, except the view of the abbey 🙂

Beautiful ruins, ideal as a venue for my wedding photography.

A very picturesque 13th century Augustinian Abbey that was once a Midlands powerhouse. Cited in a beautiful location and has a hidden gem in the form of an intact stairwell that offers fabulous views of the surrounding area. Worth a visit especially as there are other sites nearby as well.

A stunning, hidden gem of a spot. Beautiful ruins, you wander round trying to imagine the grandeur of this place. Thankfully it’s never that busy as parking is very limited (on road; about three spaces!) Find the Gothic arch, it’s a fantastic piece of stone masonry.