Shaftesbury Abbey

Shaftesbury Abbey was a Benedictine nunnery in Shaftesbury, Dorset, founded by Alfred the Great around 888. It stood as the second-wealthiest nunnery in England before its dissolution in 1539. The abbey held great religious significance, housing the relics of St Edward the Martyr and becoming a major pilgrimage site. The abbey’s history includes remarkable events like the translation of St Edward’s relics in 981, attended by St Dunstan and Ælfhere, Ealdorman of Mercia. Reports of miracles, including healings of the sick, drew pilgrims and strengthened its reputation. Abbess Eulalia corresponded with Anselm of Canterbury, who praised the nuns’ prayers. Queen Elizabeth de Burgh was imprisoned there in 1312–1313. Today, the abbey site features excavated stonework and medieval tiles in its museum. The ruins host events such as film screenings, drama workshops and historical lectures. A medieval garden and orchard recreate the abbey’s past, while local music showcases take place during the town’s Gold Hill Fair.