The Abbey Church — Attraction in England

What the visitor will see are lines of low stone walls set-out in a plan across a grassed area. These are the outlines of the foundations of Leicester Abbey - which was the medieval Abbey of St. Mary de Pratis (St. Mary of the Meadows) run by the Augustinian Order (sometimes called the Black Canons because of their dress of a black cloak over a white habit). It was dissolved in 1538 under the Dissolution of the Monasteries law enacted in the reign of King Henry V111 of England (following his schism with the Roman Catholic Church under the Pope and his decision to set-up the Protestant Church of England with him as it's head) and it was destroyed within two years.

Leicester Abbey is famous for being where Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the King's Chancellor, died on 29th November 1530 on his way to London under arrest (probably to be executed) following his failure to get King Henry granted a divorce from his Queen, Catherine of Aragon, by the Pope so he could marry Anne Bullen (Boleyn) in his attempt to get an heir. Cardinal Wolsey was buried in the Lady Chapel of Leicester Abbey but his tomb was lost when the Abbey was destroyed so the current resting place of his body is not known at present (although occasional archeological excavations happen from time-to-time).

The Abbey outlines were reconstructed by archeologists during the 1920s/1930s.

There is a memorial stone slab in the place which it is believed to be the correct location where Cardinal Wolsey's lost tomb...

Abbey Park is a beautiful and well-maintained green space, perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy some outdoor leisure. Opened in 1882, the park spans 36 hectares and is renowned for its picturesque formal gardens, a boating lake, and various recreational facilities, including tennis courts and a children’s play area.

One of the park’s standout features is the archaeological remains of the Abbey of St Mary, alongside the ruins of Cavendish House, providing a glimpse into Leicester’s historical past. The park also has a charming miniature railway that operates on Sundays from May to October, delighting children and adults alike. Seasonal events are frequently hosted here, including fireworks displays and local festivals.

Visitors can also explore a petting zoo and enjoy refreshments at the onsite café, which offers a selection of hot and cold food and drinks. Alternatively, you can bring a picnic to enjoy in the lush surroundings.

Parking is available in nearby pay-and-display car parks, and the park is accessible year-round. With its mix of historical intrigue and recreational activities, Abbey Park is an ideal destination for a relaxing...

I love Abby Park have been going for 70 years. Henry the eighth came her and cardinal woosley is buried in the ruins of the massive Abby that was here. There's the pravillion that seeks food and drinks, my mum made caoflage nets upstairs in there in the last war. It was all very secure tanks on the oval lawn covered and hidden from above. There was a fire and it was rebuilt many years ago. But there's a small lake which we used to boat on. The little train still operates in season. On a Wednesday there's a charity bike group that let's people of all disabilities have a rude round the oval even in wheelchairs. There's often events on here but sadly the Abby Park show stopped many years ago as did the music festival. Hope they bring these things back. I sold West Indian food with Creole Caterers who I was a chef for, oh what memories........