The Almonry Museum

This 14th Century building was once home to the Almoner of the Benedictine Abbey that was founded at Evesham in the 8th Century.Following the closure of the Abbey by Henry VIII, the Almonry became the personal home of the last Abbot, Philip Ballard, whilst the rest of the Abbey buildings were sold to Sir Philip Hoby who arranged for the quarrying of the stone.Today, the Almonry, two churches, bell tower and cloister arch are all that remain of what was reportedly the third largest abbey in England.The Almonry has had a varied career: ale house, offices, tea rooms, private home, until it was finally purchased by Evesham Borough Council in 1929. In 1957 it opened as a Heritage Centre owned and funded by the council: the Vale of Evesham Historical Society have acted as honorary custodians since the opening.Today the Almonry houses a collection that spans the prehistoric to the 20th Century. Displayed over 12 rooms and a garden, the emphasis is on how Evesham has developed and grown during this time. There are exhibitions about the Abbey, the battle of Evesham in 1265, horticulture in the area, Anglo-Saxon burial treasure, 18th Century clothing and the impact of war upon this little market town.For children, this is a wonderful place full of exciting treasures to discover with regular trails and craft activities in the school holidays.Battle of Evesham TrailThis is a self-guided Trail, clearly signed by waymarked posts, which takes you over the general area where the battle was fought. It simply attempts to show you the lie of the land and leaves you to envisage for yourself what happened here on 4th August 1265.Besides exploring the scene of the battle, we hope this walk will help you enjoy the beauty of this typical Vale countryside with its extensive orchards a very important part of Evesham's later history. There are glorious views to Bredon Hill and the Malverns.The Battle Well field is tenanted by the Society and actively managed as part of a Natural England stewardship scheme, with particular emphasis on conserving the flora.