The Marvels of Malmesbury

Enjoy an exclusive guided tour of the vibrant market town of Malmesbury, steeped in history and interest dating back to medieval times.

Enjoy a guided tour of Malmesbury and discover its extraordinary history for such a small town. Visit the Abbey, founded by an Irish monk in the 7th century and transformed into an important centre for learning by its most celebrated abbot, Aldhelm. The present Abbey church, the bulk of which forms a rare survival of the Dissolution of the Monasteries, dates largely from the 12th century and its worship has been shaped by Celtic pilgrims and Benedictine monks. The south porch contains one of the most attractive sculptural schemes remaining from the Romanesque period in England. One of England's greatest kings, Athelstan, was buried here and Edmund Ironside was married here. We will encounter fascinating monastic characters such as John of Tintern and Thomas of Bromham, whose exploits have been illuminated by recent research.

Malmesbury Abbey (above and header image) © Arpingstone, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Our tour will include a visit to The Courthouse, the headquarters of the Old Corporation of Malmesbury, an ancient institution which claims to date from the time of King Athelstan. The Courthouse is not normally open to the public, and a visit here gives an intriguing insight into the special character of the town. We will also learn about Elmer, an 11th century monk who attempted to fly; Thomas Hobbes, the 17th century political scientist and considered the father of English philosophy; Hannah Twynnoy, an 18th century serving maid who was mauled to death by a tiger in 1703; and Walter Powell, a 19th century MP who disappeared in a hot air balloon. We will also try to locate the site of the town's 12th century castle, long since demolished, and hear about an event which took place here in 1153 which helped to shape the nation's history.

Tickets £60 including a two-course pub lunch at the Greyhound Inn. Lunch options to be made available to attendees in November 2026.