Heart of England - Worcestershire

Following the closure of the Abbey by Henry VIII, the Almonry became the personal home of the last Abbot, Philip Ballard, whilst the rest of the Abbey buildings were sold to Sir Philip Hoby who arranged for the quarrying of the stone. Today, the Almonry, two churches, bell tower and cloister arch are all that remain of what was reportedly the third largest abbey in England.

The Almonry has had a varied career since the Reformation! Used as an ale house, offices, tea rooms, private home, it was finally purchased by Evesham Borough Council in 1929, opening as a heritage centre in 1957.

Inside this architecturally patchwork Almonry, is an eclectic collection that spans the prehistoric to the 20th Century is displayed over 12 rooms and a garden, with the emphasis on how Evesham has developed and grown during this time. There are exhibitions about the Abbey, the battle of Evesham in 1265, horticulture in the area, Anglo-Saxon burial treasure, 18th Century clothing and the impact of war upon this little market town.

For children, this is a wonderful place full of exciting treasures to discover and explore with their family and friends. Ask for one of our free Almonry Explorer trails when you visit to help you find out more. During school holidays Activity Packs are available with trails, puzzles and crafts for children to do. The Almonry is a proud supporter of the Kids in Museums manifesto.

Guided group tours are available by pre-booking – please call the Almonry on 01386 446944 to discuss your group’s needs before booking. We also recommend that group organisers look at our access statement on our website (or ask for a hard copy via post).

Evesham is a charming market town, nestled in a loop of the River Avon as it meanders along from Stratford to Pershore. As well as its historical connections, Evesham is renowned for horticulture and is home to the famous Blossom Trail and Asparagus Festival. Throughout August 2015, it will also be commemorating the Barons War of 1264-65, the war that kick-started democracy in England, with a series of battle re-enactments, lectures and events.

Whilst in Evesham you can explore the Almonry, wander through the Green Flag award winning riverside and Abbey parks, walk the Battle Trail, take a leisurely river cruise, enjoy lunch at one of our many excellent cafes and restaurants, even visit the Art Deco cinema!

Open from 10am – 5pm Monday – Saturday (closed Wednesdays except by arrangement) and from 2pm – 5pm Sundays (March to end October). Last admission is at 4pm. Closed for 2 weeks Christmas/New Year.

Standard Admissions: £5 adults, £2 seniors and students, children under 11 go FREE! Reduced group rates available; please contact the office to discuss before your visit.

Events List:
10th May:
Almonry Folk presents…Steve Ashley live in concert from 7.30pm. Tickets £10 each.

22nd May – 1st June:
Spot the Crocks! Follow our hidden archaeology trail and make your own medieval style tile! £2 per pack.

May Special Exhibitions:
John Cotterell, wood turner, exhibits his craft. How Does Your Vale Grow: an exploration into the blossom trail and asparagus season

June to end September Special Exhibition:
Simon de Montfort and the Battle of Evesham – preparing for war.

July Special Craft Exhibition:
embroidery by Bridget Steel-Jessop, textile artist.

20th July – 3rd September:
Preparing for Battle: marking the 750th anniversary of the Battle of Evesham, there will be activities, an exhibition, trails and you will be able to make your own shield!

October Special Exhibition:
Uncovering the Almonry, an exploration through its architecture, owners and unique history.

23rd October – 2nd November: Breaking the Code! A gallop through the history of codes from Morse to pictograms, Make your own invisible message!

Almonry Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4BG. 01386 446944.
Email: tic@almonry.ndo.co.uk. www.almonryevesham.org.
Twitter: @almonryevesham. Facebook: /almonryevesham.