Mermaid Pond
Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Dorset
England
Mermaid Pond
Mermaid Pond, located in the picturesque county of Dorset in southern England, is a small freshwater body surrounded by lush greenery and captivating natural beauty. With a surface area of approximately 2 acres, it is often described as a pond, but its size could also be likened to that of a small lake or pool. The pond is situated within a tranquil setting, nestled amidst rolling hills and dense woodlands, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
The water in Mermaid Pond is crystal clear and fed by a combination of underground springs and rainwater runoff. This ensures a constant flow of fresh, clean water, creating an ideal habitat for a variety of aquatic plants and wildlife. The pond is home to several species of fish, including carp, roach, and perch, making it a popular spot for anglers seeking a quiet fishing experience.
Surrounding the pond is a freshwater marsh, characterized by its vibrant vegetation and diverse range of flora and fauna. This marshland provides a vital habitat for numerous bird species, including herons, kingfishers, and ducks, attracting birdwatchers throughout the year.
The pond itself is easily accessible, with a footpath leading visitors to its shores. There are also picnic areas nearby, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. Mermaid Pond offers a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of this idyllic Dorset gem.
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Mermaid Pond Images
Images are sourced within 2km of 50.841423/-2.9122339 or Grid Reference ST3505. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.
Drive from Forde Abbey
Looking away from the building along the avenue of Lime trees which look very autumnal on this September afternoon.
Forde Abbey
Viewed from across the Long Pond which is bordered by a vast bed of herbaceous plants and clipped yews.
Empty seat
With its back to one of the yew hedges at Forde Abbey.
The Lime trees along the entrance drive can be seen beyond.
View across The Great Pond
Trees are beginning to take on autumnal hues at Forde Abbey Gardens.
Tangled branches
Across a secluded corner of the Great Pond at Forde Abbey Gardens.
Old Milestone by B3162, opposite Whatley Farm, Whatley
The Milestone is located on grass verge (now collapsed onto grass verge) on the South of the road. Parish of Winsham (South Somerset District). Carved stone post, Chard limestone post design, erected by the Chard turnpike trust in the 19th Century. An earlier photograph can be found here: Link
Inscription reads:-
CHARD / 3 / WINSHAM / 1
Grade II listed. List Entry Number: 1056139 Link
Milestone Society National ID: SO_CHWN03
Milestone Society National ID: SO_CHWN03
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [1] The entrance avenue, looking out towards the entrance gate.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s0.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/74/7567492_92989d94.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [1]
The entrance avenue, looking out towards the entrance gate.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [2] The seven bays of arches are the north alley of the former cloister.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s1.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/74/7567497_3e4cc0be.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [2]
The seven bays of arches are the north alley of the former cloister.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [3] The Dorter range with the Chapter House. The 13 bay Dorter range is 13th century. The Chapter House (now the chapel) is mid 12th century, the upper part was rebuilt in the 16th century and altered in the late 17th century.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s2.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567502_6b6fd65a.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [3]
The Dorter range with the Chapter House. The 13 bay Dorter range is 13th century. The Chapter House (now the chapel) is mid 12th century, the upper part was rebuilt in the 16th century and altered in the late 17th century.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [4] The Chapter House is now the chapel. Built in the 12th century, the upper part was rebuilt in the 16th century and altered in the late 17th century. The east window is early 16th century.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s2.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567506_62eed627.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [4]
The Chapter House is now the chapel. Built in the 12th century, the upper part was rebuilt in the 16th century and altered in the late 17th century. The east window is early 16th century.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [5] A mounting block at the corner of the Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s1.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567509_e58ef41d.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [5]
A mounting block at the corner of the Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [6] An information board about the chapel within the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s3.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567511_46e2e0d3.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [6]
An information board about the chapel within the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [7] The 12th century vaulting in the chapel, the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s2.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567514_8a03c0a2.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [7]
The 12th century vaulting in the chapel, the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [8] The pulpit in the chapel, the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s3.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567519_17c55e95.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [8]
The pulpit in the chapel, the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [9] The fine 17th century screen in the chapel, the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s3.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567523_39dcaaf9.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [9]
The fine 17th century screen in the chapel, the former Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [10] The front elevation of the house from the left. Drawing Room of Abbot&#039;s Lodging, 16th century, altered and rebuilt in the 17th century. West dining room, similar to drawing room but only 2 storeys. Abbot&#039;s Hall, early 16th century. Porch, dated 1528. Dining Room with projecting verandah. North alley of cloister, 7 bays. Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s3.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567583_7f9145bc.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [10]
The front elevation of the house from the left. Drawing Room of Abbot's Lodging, 16th century, altered and rebuilt in the 17th century. West dining room, similar to drawing room but only 2 storeys. Abbot's Hall, early 16th century. Porch, dated 1528. Dining Room with projecting verandah. North alley of cloister, 7 bays. Chapter House.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
![Forde Abbey and Gardens [11] The Long Pond, constructed in the 18th century and restored in the 20th century.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1153362">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002347">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000717">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>](https://s3.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/07/56/75/7567591_f3935351.jpg)
Forde Abbey and Gardens [11]
The Long Pond, constructed in the 18th century and restored in the 20th century.
Forde Abbey and Gardens is situated in Dorset, on the south bank of the River Axe, some 5½ miles northeast of Axminster and about 3 miles southeast of Chard. A Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1136, and after dissolution in 1539, it was partly converted into a Country House. Parts of the monastic buildings of the 12th, 13th, 15th and 16th centuries survive with alterations, extensions and restorations in the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries. The house is constructed of rubble stone with Ham stone ashlar and dressings under roofs of slate and lead. The house is listed, grade I, with details at: Link Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Part of the gardens, in which the abbey church and northern cloister survive as buried structures, are a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link The site has some 15 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds, and about 65 acres of parkland. The grounds are on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, grade II*, with details at: Link
Mermaid Pond is located at Grid Ref: ST3505 (Lat: 50.841423, Lng: -2.9122339)
Unitary Authority: Dorset
Police Authority: Dorset
What 3 Words
///tested.loud.newsprint. Near Chard, Somerset
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