The magnificent and unique west face of the Abbey has a group of three lancet windows, each tall and narrow reaching to a pointed arch. Above the main window is a small cinquefoil (five petal) window and either side of the group are windows allowing daylight into the side aisles of the church. The wall is supported by two massive buttresses. There is nothing decorative or ornamental on the west face. Stonework is shaped only for purpose. This shows that no-one was expected to approach the Abbey from this side, which was close to the Precinct wall of the nunnery.
Nor is there a grand west door through which most congregations enter their churches. The nuns entered the Abbey directly from their domestic quarters on the south side and the townspeople entered on the north side.
Continue round the building until you return to the north porch.
If the Abbey is open, please come inside, have a look around, and visit our gift shop and bookstall, which are packed full of books, cards, gifts, and souvenirs of your visit. If you have enjoyed your visit, please make a donation towards the upkeep of the Abbey; it costs at least £1400 a day to maintain this magnificent building that hosts so many services and festivals, musical and cultural events as well as educational activities. Thank you.
