Torre Abbey is the most complete medieval monastery to survive in Devon.  Later converted to a country mansion, and now an impressive historic house, art gallery and garden, Torre Abbey is Torbay's most historic building and is Grade I listed and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Explore over 800 years of history at Torquay's oldest building

Premonstratensian Abbey
Founded in 1196 as a monastery of the Premonstratensian order, it became their wealthiest abbey in England by the end of the 15th century.  Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539 the Abbey church was demolished by a ruling of Henry VIII and the abbot's apartment and the south range were adapted as a private house. 

Historic Family Home
In 1662 it became the home of the Cary family who lived in it for nearly three centuries.  They were Catholics and the remains of their secret chapel still survive.The Carys remodelled the building from around 1740 and its present-day appearance was mostly complete by 1810.  Many of the Georgian rooms are now used as galleries, displaying the town's significant art collection as well as visiting temporary exhibitions.  

Important Council Building
In 1930 the local council purchased the Abbey for use as an art gallery and mayor's parlour.  Apart from a short time in use by the Royal Air Force during the Second World War it has
been open to the public ever since.

Fantastic Permanent Collection
The Abbey is used as a showcase for Torbay Council's art collection which is particularly strong in 19th-century art, exemplified by important works by Holman Hunt and Burne-Jones. There are dressed rooms (such as the Dining Room, shown in the photo, right), and collections of antiques. 

Contemporary Art 
The medieval tithe barn, popularly known as the 'Spanish Barn' because it was used as a temporary prison after the Spanish Armada, now hosts temporary art exhibitions and other
 cultural events during the summer months. In addition to this, Torre Abbey has two
 gallery spaces which host contemporary exhibitions, these are changed about every three
 months and are available throughout the year.

Visiting
Admissions are now made through the medieval undercrofts, allowing you to experience the oldest parts of Torre Abbey first. With four floors and about 100 rooms, there is plenty to explore. We have daily tours at 11.30am and 2.30pm (in order to provide this service we require six or more people).

Events, Weddings and Hiring Torre Abbey

Business Events
A stunning, historic venue for your event in the heart of Torquay. Torre Abbey has welcomed visitors for over eight centuries and offers a range of unusual venues for your business or hospitality event.

Please visit our website, or contact Lucinda Heron (lucinda.heron@torbay.gov.uk) for more information.

Weddings
A stunning setting for your wedding or special gathering in the heart of Torquay, overlooking Torre Abbey Meadows and the sea beyond.
We have six licensed spaces for wedding and civil ceremonies.

Please visit our website, or contact Lucinda Heron (lucinda.heron@torbay.gov.uk) for more information.

Business Events