St Dogmaels Abbey


Built by a reforming Benedictine community from France in 1120 on the site of an already-ancient Celtic monastery, St Dogmaels' active life lasted until 1538, when it fell to Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. Cut off from community and purpose, it declined into the photogenic ruin you see today. The small museum in the coach house tells the abbey's story and includes a cafe and gallery. A vibrant Local Producers Market is held here every Tuesday from 9am to 1pm.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Guildhall

0.85 MILES

Completed in 1860, Cardigan's 'modern Gothic' Guildhall is home to community meeting spaces, the Corn Exchange gallery and an eclectic indoor market,…

2. Cardigan Castle

0.86 MILES

Cardigan Castle holds an important place in Welsh culture, having been the venue for the first competitive National Eisteddfod, held in 1176 under the…

3. Welsh Wildlife Centre

1.57 MILES

Bordering the River Teifi just south of Cardigan, the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve is a haven for kingfishers, owls, otters, badgers and butterflies. You…

4. Mwnt Church

4.27 MILES

This lovely, lonely church, 5 miles from Cardigan along winding country lanes leading to sea cliffs, is striking for its simplicity and remoteness…

5. Castell Henllys

5.16 MILES

If you've ever wondered what a Celtic village looked, felt and smelt like, take a trip back in time to this Iron Age settlement, 4 miles east of Newport…

6. St Brynach's Church

6.21 MILES

With its overgrown castle and atmospheric church, the little village of Nevern, 2 miles east of Newport, makes a good objective for an easy walk or ride…

7. Pentre Ifan

6.82 MILES

The largest neolithic dolmen in Wales, Pentre Ifan is a 5500-year-old neolithic burial chamber set on a remote hillside with superb views across the…

8. Carreg Coetan Arthur

7.62 MILES

Now surrounded by fields and houses, this little dolmen has been here for 5000 years. At first glance it looks like the capstone is securely supported by…