As part of our ongoing exploration of the AQA A Level History course (1C: The Tudors: England, 1485–1603), our A Level History students recently enjoyed an inspiring and immersive visit to Buckfast Abbey, nestled in the heart of Devon. The visit supported our studies on the Dissolution of the Monasteries, a pivotal moment in the reign of Henry VIII.

Buckfast Abbey offered a rare and valuable opportunity to experience the legacy of Tudor policy first-hand. While the current abbey buildings were rebuilt in the 20th century, the site’s rich monastic heritage—and its survival through suppression and revival—prompted deep reflection and debate among students. We explored how monastic life shaped the spiritual, economic, and social fabric of England, and considered the local impact of Henry VIII’s dramatic reforms.

The visit also sparked discussions about continuity and change, religious identity, and the role of local history in shaping our understanding of broader historical narratives. Students returned from Buckfast Abbey not only with enhanced knowledge of the Tudor period, but with a renewed appreciation for how history is woven into the landscapes and communities around us.

We are proud to continue offering enriching opportunities that deepen our students' engagement with history—and we look forward to our next historical adventure.