St Edmundsbury Cathedral

Artist’s Impression of the Abbey of St Edmund

The Facts

The Abbey of St Edmund, was once one of the largest and wealthiest Benedictine abbeys in medieval England. We want people to have the best experience of the Abbey, and to protect it for future generations to enjoy.

To find out more about the Abbey of St Edmund see www.abbeyofstedmund.org.uk

View of Abbey ruins from Cathedral
Edmund statue infront of West Front

Did you know…?

  • The Abbey was founded 1000 years ago by King Canute
  • King Henry VIII’s sister, Mary, used to be buried in the Abbey. When Henry closed the Abbey, he had to have his sister moved to the neighbouring parish church of St Mary
  • The monks were the first brewers of beer in the town. They also had vineyards on the road now called Vinefields.

If you’d like a more in-depth tour, Cathedral Tours are available! Please speak to a welcomer to find out more details.