Denny Abbey and the Farmland Museum

Denny Abbey has a unique and fascinating history. Founded in 1159 as a Benedictine monastery, it then became a retirement home for elderly Knights Templars. After the Templars' suppression for alleged heresy in 1308, it next passed to the Countess of Pembroke, who converted part into a house and established in the rest a convent of 'Poor Clare' Franciscan nuns. This in turn was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1539, whereafter the buildings became a farm until the 1960s, with the nuns' great refectory as its barn. Among its tenants was Thomas Hobson, the horsehirer whose refusal to allow customers to select their mounts gave rise to the expression 'Hobson's choice'

All these changes are still traceable in the building: they are now interpreted for visitors by graphic panels illustrated by local artist Anne Biggs, together with a time-line tracing the site's history from 4000 BC, a viewing platform and displays of site finds. Family-friendly activities include imaginative hands-on interactives about medieval tiles, stained glass and arches.

Denny's later farming story is continued by Walnut Tree Cottage, furnished as a labourer's home of the 1940s The site's Farmland Museum also features a fenman's hut, blacksmith's and wheelwright's workshops, a village shop display and many other aspects of Cambridgeshire rural life.

Please note: There is a charge of £2.60 for English Heritage members and OVP holders for entry to the museum.