Waltham Abbey Gatehouse and Bridge

Explore the fascinating remnants of one of the great monastic foundations of the Middle Ages at this important site, based in the historic market town of Waltham Abbey.

With origins dating back to the early 11th century, the site adopted many religious functions over the years (including as a church and priory) before eventually becoming home to one of the most prosperous and important abbeys in the country: the final resting place of King Harold II, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, and later housing the Waltham Bible.

Although the abbey was dissolved in 1540 (the last monastic house in England to be surrendered to the Crown), visitors can still see a fine 14th century gatehouse and bridge that remains, as well as the walls of the post-medieval house that was built following its dissolution.