The ruins of Waverley

POD doesn’t nap much. Not since the bars of her cot came down. Toys have become a far more interesting alternative. As has her most recent hobby. Getting naked. You’ve got to love the life of a toddler.

Sometimes getting out of the house is the only way to encourage sleep. Aside from which I crave the fresh air the Surrey countryside brings. A stark contrast to the smog of South London.

POD and I were off to visit the 900 year old ruins of Waverley Abbey. Situated in a peaceful bend of the River Wey, they’re located two miles South East of Farnham.

I visited once before when POD was a few months old. It was a hot summer’s day and we had an enjoyable walk whilst basking in glorious sunshine. Today was no different in the area being still and quiet. POD was not amused when she was removed from the comfort of her nice warm car seat to a freezing cold buggy.

Our walk along the River Wey was pleasant though and we were lucky enough to see some ducks. We passed a woman with a really old Labrador on the way. But that was it. Just us.

The Waverley monastry was the first Cistercian house to be established in Britain. It was founded by William Gifford, the Bishop of Winchester, in 1128. There were 70 monks and 120 lay brothers in residence by 1178. Floods became commonplace in later years however and the abbey was rebuilt as a result during the 13th Century.

As we approached the ruins, the blue skies turned grey. Then it snowed. Horizontally. POD said “I don’t like it, I go car” but just as we about to turn back, the snow disappeared. So we briskly made our way over giant mole hills to the ruins.

Today only parts of the buildings remain standing although some of these are substantial. The most impressive is the lay brothers’ quarters. The long cellar has graceful columns supporting the vaulting above. Parts of the upper floor and the south wall are visible.

An end wall and parts of the side walls of the monks’ dormitory are visible up to the full height of the gable. Substantial remains of the chapter house and the south transept of the church, as well as traces of the north transept, are also visible. An isolated stretch of wall to the east of the church is part of the abbey’s infirmary chapel.

Having had a look around we followed the River Wey back to the car. Ironically the sun was now shining showing how glorious the ruins can look on a fine day. We even witnessed a heron fly past us. After a fabulous drive witnessing some stunning views, POD and I took to the shops where she took great pleasure in shouting “hello man” at everyone she passed.

The Waverley Abbey ruins are managed by English Heritage. They’re open from 13th March 2013 to 31st March 2014. Waverley Abbey, Waverley Lane, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 8EP.

Country Kids is about enjoying outdoor time with the kids, from play time, family adventures to fun in the local park. If you have a post you’d like to share, click on the link below or visit the Coombe Mill website.