Our Projects - Rediscovering Tavistock Abbey
For more than 500 years, Tavistock Abbey stood at the heart of the town.
Founded in AD 974, it grew into one of the most influential Benedictine abbeys in the South West, shaping the religious, economic, educational and political life of the region. Its lands stretched across Devon, Cornwall and beyond. Its abbots advised kings. Its buildings dominated the landscape.
Although much of the Abbey disappeared following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539, its story is still woven into the streets, buildings and character of Tavistock today.
The Rediscovering Tavistock Abbey Project is an ambitious community-led programme that will help reveal, protect and celebrate this remarkable heritage for future generations.
Led by Tavistock Heritage Trust in partnership with Tavistock Town Council, the project combines conservation, archaeology, historical research, education and community engagement to tell the Abbey's story in new and exciting ways.
Uncovering a Thousand Years of History
A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity
Thanks to support from Historic England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Tavistock Town Council and Tavistock Heritage Trust, work is now underway to transform our understanding of one of Devon's most important medieval sites.
Over the coming months and years, the project will:
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Repair and conserve important surviving Abbey remains, including Betsy Grimbal's Tower.
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Carry out community archaeology investigations with professional support.
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Undertake new historical research into the Abbey and its influence across the South West.
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Explore the Abbey's physical footprint through surveys and digital technologies.
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Develop interpretation and educational resources for residents, visitors and schools.
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Create opportunities for volunteers to participate in research, archaeology and heritage activities.
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Share discoveries through exhibitions, events, talks, digital content and publications.
This is not simply about preserving ancient stones. It is about reconnecting Tavistock with the place that shaped its identity for centuries.
Community at the Heart of the Project
The Abbey belongs to everyone.
From archaeological digs and documentary research to school activities, heritage skills training and public events, local people will play a central role in helping uncover and interpret the Abbey's story.
Already, more than 150 people have expressed an interest in becoming involved in the project. Whether you are an experienced historian, a student, a family looking for new experiences, or simply curious about Tavistock's past, there will be opportunities to participate.
No specialist knowledge is required. Enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to learn are all that's needed.
What Will We Discover?
Many questions about Tavistock Abbey remain unanswered.
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How large was the monastic complex?
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What survives beneath modern Tavistock?
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How did the Abbey evolve during its five and a half centuries of existence?
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What role did it play in shaping the town, the region and even the nation?
Through archaeology, research and community investigation, we hope to answer these questions and many more.
As discoveries are made, they will be shared through regular news updates, events and exhibitions.
Follow the Journey
The Rediscovering Tavistock Abbey Project is only just beginning.
This page will act as the central hub for project news, archaeological discoveries, conservation updates, volunteer opportunities and upcoming events.
We invite you to follow the journey, share in the discoveries and help us tell the story of Tavistock Abbey for the next generation.
Latest Project News
Visit our dedicated news pages for the latest updates, stories, and opportunities to get involved.
Get Involved
Interested in volunteering, joining the research group or participating in community archaeology?
Contact Tavistock Heritage Trust and become part of one of the most exciting heritage projects ever undertaken in Tavistock.
Together, we can rediscover the Abbey that helped shape our town.