Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn
A magnificent 14th-century medieval barn, one of England's largest, offering free exploration of its grand stone structure and timber roof.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 14th-century medieval barn, one of England's largest, offering free exploration of its grand stone structure and timber roof.
"A diamond in the rough, this unique and beautiful venue is a must-visit for history lovers."
Free to Explore! :money_with_wings:
Wander around the barn and grounds at your leisure, no ticket needed. Perfect for a budget-friendly visit.
Combine with Town Visit :cityscape:
Bradford-on-Avon is a charming town with shops and cafes, easily accessible from the barn.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Medieval Barn
Barton Farm
Marvel at the 51m-long, 14th-century stone barn with its original, arched timber roof.
Whispers of History
Inside the Barn
Discover faint 'witch marks' or hexafoils carved into the stone, meant to ward off evil.
Picturesque Setting
Barton Farm
Enjoy the serene atmosphere of Barton Farm, a beautiful venue for events and peaceful exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Medieval Majesty
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Explore! :money_with_wings:
Wander around the barn and grounds at your leisure, no ticket needed. Perfect for a budget-friendly visit.
Combine with Town Visit :cityscape:
Bradford-on-Avon is a charming town with shops and cafes, easily accessible from the barn.
Check Event Listings :calendar:
The barn hosts various events, from music to weddings. Check schedules for a unique experience.
Family-Friendly Fun :child:
There's a nearby park for kids, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Explore! :money_with_wings:
Wander around the barn and grounds at your leisure, no ticket needed. Perfect for a budget-friendly visit.
Combine with Town Visit :cityscape:
Bradford-on-Avon is a charming town with shops and cafes, easily accessible from the barn.
Check Event Listings :calendar:
The barn hosts various events, from music to weddings. Check schedules for a unique experience.
Family-Friendly Fun :child:
There's a nearby park for kids, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Photography Gem :camera:
Capture the stunning medieval architecture and serene surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn for its impressive medieval architecture and free access, calling it a 'diamond in the rough' and a 'hidden gem'. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful setting are frequently highlighted, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and families alike. Some visitors note that interior access can be limited due to events.
"The Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn was built in the mid 14th century to serve Barton Grange, a manor farm which belonged to Shaftesbury Abbey in Dorset, the richest nunnery in medieval England. It is so large that the Royal Navy cunningly decided to build World War One destroyers within the barn, knowing full well that the Germans would never suspect it was being used for such a purpose. H.M.S. Acasta, Colne, Chelmsford and Medusa were all constructed here. The destroyers were fast and maneuverable ships designed to counter torpedo boat threats. The ships were transported to the nearby River Avon by attaching them to fifty hot air balloons, a wedge of over four hundred swans were trained to steer the ships once they were airborne. Anyone seeing this automatically assumed they were hallucinating, therefore the navy's secret remained intact."
Bill Robson
"Lovely barn with nearby facilities for food and drink . And local park for Kids . Free to walk around ."
Tony Carter
"We visited from Canada for a wedding and were blown away by the venue. So unique and beautiful. A diamond in the rough."
Jonathan Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tithe Barn is located at Barton Farm in Bradford-on-Avon. It's a short, scenic 15-minute train ride from Bath. 
While specific parking details for the barn itself can vary, the town of Bradford-on-Avon has parking facilities. It's often recommended to park in town and enjoy a walk to the barn.
Yes, the town center is close to Barton Farm and the Tithe Barn. A leisurely walk will allow you to appreciate the surroundings.
Bradford-on-Avon has a train station, making it easily accessible by public transport, especially from nearby cities like Bath.
Many visitors find approaching from the town side offers lovely views. Consider walking along the river for different perspectives.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn is generally free to walk around and explore.
As it's a historical site and often used for events, there aren't strict 'opening hours' for general access. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
Access to the interior may depend on whether there are events taking place. If not, you might be able to see inside, but it's not guaranteed.
Entry to the Tithe Barn grounds is typically free of charge.
Yes, the Tithe Barn is a popular venue for weddings and other events. You would need to contact the venue directly for booking information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive 14th-century architecture, including the large stone structure and original timber roof. Look for the 'witch marks' carved into the stone.
Yes, there's a nearby park for kids, making it a good spot for a family outing.
Built in the 14th century, it was part of a monastic estate. It's one of the largest medieval barns in England and has a fascinating history.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised, but the free exploration allows you to discover its history at your own pace.
Take your time to walk around the exterior and, if accessible, the interior. Notice the scale of the building and the details of the roof structure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are lovely cafes and pubs in Bradford-on-Avon town center, just a short walk away.
The area around the Tithe Barn is often described as peaceful and beautiful, making it a suitable spot for a picnic.
The town offers a mouthwatering selection of local independent shops, pubs, and cafes.
While not directly part of the barn, there are nearby facilities like The Granary Gift shop and Little Barn Cafe.
Bradford-on-Avon has a range of independent eateries, so you're likely to find diverse options. It's best to check individual cafe or pub menus.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the barn, especially with the surrounding greenery, offers great shots. The interior, if accessible, showcases the impressive roof structure.
Absolutely! The Tithe Barn is described as a unique and beautiful venue, perfect for memorable wedding photos.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the barn's details. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning light.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is fine. If you plan a professional photoshoot, it's advisable to check with the venue.
Focus on the scale of the building and the intricate, arched timber roof supports. The 'witch marks' also make for interesting close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Crucially, there's a local park nearby which is perfect for children to run around and burn off energy after exploring the historical site. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the intricate details of the 'witch marks' inside, or frame the barn against the picturesque backdrop of Barton Farm. +1 Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon can provide beautiful, soft lighting for your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of the Tithe Barn
+1Beyond its functional grandeur, the barn holds intriguing historical details. Faint carvings, known as 'witch marks' or hexafoils, are etched into the stone. These symbols were believed to ward off evil spirits and offer protection, providing a glimpse into the superstitions and beliefs of the time.
Visitors often find these small, intricate details fascinating, adding another layer to the barn's rich history. The barn's impressive size and construction have led to its use for various events, including music performances and weddings, highlighting its continued relevance and beauty. While the barn's monastic origins are well-documented, some accounts humorously suggest it was later used by the Royal Navy to construct World War One destroyers. This fanciful tale, though not historically accurate, adds a quirky element to the barn's lore.
Exploring Bradford-on-Avon: More Than Just a Barn
It's a place where history is palpable, from its medieval structures to its more recent past. The town is also known for its delightful array of independent shops, pubs, and cafes, offering plenty of opportunities to refuel and soak in the local atmosphere. Many visitors recommend combining a trip to the Tithe Barn with a stroll through the town. The proximity makes it easy to experience both the historical significance of the barn and the vibrant, yet relaxed, ambiance of Bradford-on-Avon. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a place to explore local culture, the town offers a welcoming experience.
The town's beauty has even led to it being described as a 'hidden gem' and a 'diamond in the rough' by visitors. For those traveling from nearby, Bradford-on-Avon is conveniently accessible. It's just a 15-minute train ride from the popular city of Bath, making it an ideal day trip destination for those exploring the wider region.
The combination of historical sites, charming streets, and local amenities makes Bradford-on-Avon a well-rounded destination for any traveler. 
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