Читать книгу Made in Great Britain - Tom Quinn - Страница 28

Founded by the Wessex King Ine, the monastery at Muchelney was destroyed in Viking raids and then rebuilt in the 10th century. The dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century resulted in the destruction of this beautifully situated Benedictine foundation. Most of the monastic structures were plundered for building materials and the abbot’s house only survived because it was reused as a farmhouse.

The church has a painted ceiling, and nearby is the beautiful thatched medieval priest’s house, which is open to the public. Muchelney means ‘big island’ and when the rains and floods come Muchelney becomes an island again, as it would have been 1000 years before the monks drained the land round about and built their carp ponds and closed communities.

SECRETS

MUCHELNEY ABBEY, Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DQ (english-heritage.org.uk). Check website for opening times. Price: adult £4.20, child £2.50.

While you’re there

Visit STEMBRIDGE TOWER MILL, High Ham 01935 823289. This is the last remaining thatched mill in Britain and its high location offers spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.

Secret place to stay

ASH HOUSE COUNTRY HOTEL, Martock (ashhousehotel.co.uk). 01935 822036. A beautiful Georgian country house located in the heart of the peaceful Somerset countryside.

The lavishly decorated ceiling in the abbot’s house has been restored to its former splendour.