Restored abbey reopens its doors

The 12th Century abbey is listed as an ancient monument

The first phase of a multi-million pound repair project at a 12th Century abbey has almost been completed.

Significant structural repairs have been carried out to the west range and south west wing of Torre Abbey in Torquay, Devon.

The £6.5m project also includes a new cloister garden and lifts to make the abbey more accessible.

Torre Abbey has now reopened its doors to the public after being closed for more than two years.

The major refurbishment has been financed by English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Torbay Council and the Friends of Torre Abbey.

Spanish prisoners

English Heritage historic buildings architect Rebecca Child said visitors would be able to enjoy the medieval Grade I listed building with the benefit of contemporary facilities worthy of the 21st Century.

"The new entrance and visitor route around the abbey will give the public a much greater understanding of the history of Torre Abbey, starting as it does in the oldest part of the site," she said.

Founded in 1196, the abbey now comprises two Grade I and four Grade II listed buildings and historic gardens and is listed with English Heritage as an ancient monument.

The site also has the Spanish Barn, believed to be one of the country's most complete early medieval barns which was used to house prisoners from the Spanish Armada.

It be became a private residence following the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th Century and was bought by Torbay Council in 1930.