Discover brass rubbing on Devon holiday cottage break

4th Feb 2010  17:54

Devon holiday cottage guests visiting the South West over the next few days may want to head to Torre Abbey to discover an old pastime that can be quite addictive.

Visitors are invited to the restored ancient monument and gardens to discover and enjoy the craft of brass rubbing using metallic waxes and specialist papers.

Monumental brasses were a common feature in monasteries in the past but only around 8,000 remain in churches across England thanks to Oliver Cromwell's edict to melt them down for munitions and money.

Although Torre Abbey lost its collection during the dissolution of monasteries in Henry VIII's era, it now has 60 replica brasses that visitors can enjoy using to produce rubbings.

No experience is required and all materials will be provided for the exercise.

This is 'an addictive old hobby for all age groups', according to the abbey, which will also be hosting a series of events during the half term week, between 13th and 21st February.

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