In Spring / Summer 2017, Plowden & Smith’s exhibitions department spent several weeks transforming the museum at Hailes Abbey into a stylish, state-of-the-art learning and interpretation facility. Our bespoke object display mounts and carefully positioned displays help visitors engage more directly with the fascinating history of this English Heritage owned site.
But what is Hailes Abbey and why is it so important?
‘Hailes Abbey was a place of prayer and a place of pilgrimage. Built in the 13th century, it belonged to the Cistercian order, which favoured a simple and disciplined style of worship. The church’s east end was rebuilt early in its history to house its holy relic: the Holy Blood of Hailes. The relic brought fame to Hailes Abbey and Geoffrey Chaucer even referred to the monastery by name in The Canterbury Tales.’
– English Heritage