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Farming in the Pre-Victorian Era

With the Abbey dissolved, Strata Florida continued its long association with agriculture. Farming was a key industry in Wales, and was often the only way to survive.

In the immediate area of the monastery, the remains of what was probably the refectory were rebuilt into a house, which was to become known as Tŷ Abaty, or Great Abbey Farm House. Built as a minor mannor house for the Stedman family, passing later on to the Powells of Nanteos.

Probably the most obvious evidence of farming in Strata Florida during later times would be the surviving barn complex opposite to Tŷ Abaty. Parts of this are thought to originate from Mediaeval times when the monastery was active. Other parts are suspected to be 18th and 19th century additions, as the requirements for farming changed.

Plan of one of the barns. Click to view a larger plan of the entire complex.

Strata Florida must have been quite a succesful farm. The interior of Tŷ Abaty is quite richly decorated, with some panelled rooms, musical instruments and lots of other pieces from the families who have lived there over the years.