Due to temporary staffing shortages, Torre Abbey is currently closed on Mondays and Tuesdays until further notice. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Winter timings:

Archaeological Surveys Begin at Torre Abbey as Part of “New Beginnings: Chapter One

 

Archaeological Surveys at Torre Abbey

Torre Abbey is pleased to announce that specialist teams from Substra will soon begin a series of detailed geophysical surveys across the historic Abbey grounds. This work forms part of the New Beginnings: Chapter One project, which aims to better understand, protect, and interpret the rich heritage of the site.

Over the next 3–4 weeks, the Substra team will carry out magnetometer, geophysics, and ground‑penetrating radar (GPR) surveys. These non‑invasive techniques allow archaeologists to detect buried features and uncover clues about how the Abbey and its surrounding landscape have evolved over the last 800 years.

Where the surveys will take place

Investigations will cover key outdoor areas, including:

  • The Upper and Lower Meadows
  • The South Lawn
  • The West Lawn
  • Land surrounding the Swan Gates
  • The grounds around the Spanish Barn

These surveys will provide valuable insight for future conservation, interpretation, and development plans within the Abbey precinct.

Visitor access

The Abbey will remain open as normal throughout the survey period. However, during the week of 20 April, there may be a short period of up to two days where vehicle access to the site needs to be restricted. This temporary closure will ensure that cars do not interfere with the equipment used during the survey. Visitor updates and exact timings will be communicated closer to the date.

A step forward for Torre Abbey’s future

The findings from these surveys will help shape the next stages of the New Beginnings project, ensuring that Torre Abbey’s heritage continues to be understood, protected, and celebrated for generations to come.