Waverley Abbey in Surrey was the very first monastery founded in Britain by the reforming Cistercian religious order. A small group of monks from France settled in this quiet spot by the River Wey in 1128, and Waverley soon became the springboard for Cistercian settlement in southern England. The impressive remains include the fine 13th century vaulted refectory or dining hall for the lay brothers, the Cistercians' labour force.

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For details of a wide selection of family walks in the Farnham area, visit our guide to family friendly walks in Farnham.

Why not try a walk in Camberley, Farnborough or Frimley with our guide to walks in this area?