Skip to content
Heritage30-45 minutes

Hore Abbey

← All things to do

About

Hore Abbey is the ruined Cistercian monastery that sits in the fields just below and west of the Rock, founded in the 13th century. It is free, unguided and usually quiet, and it gives the best view of the Rock there is, the round tower and cathedral rising on the outcrop above the abbey arches. Locals and photographers come here at golden hour when the coaches have gone from the Rock. Reached on foot or by a short drive from the town, across a field on uneven ground.

Photos

Highlights

  • The classic view of the Rock from the abbey arches
  • A quiet, free, unguided national monument
  • Golden-hour light across the Golden Vale
  • 13th-century Cistercian architecture

Tips

  • Free and open; no ticket and no set hours
  • Come at golden hour for the photograph of the Rock
  • The ground is a field, so wear suitable footwear in wet weather

Best Season

SpringSummerAutumnWinter

More Heritage Activities