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Holme Eden Abbey facts for kids

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Holme Eden Abbey Geograph-3353088-by-Stephen-Richards
Holme Eden Abbey

Holme Eden Abbey is a special old building in Cumbria, England. It was once a grand house and later a home for nuns. Today, it has been turned into modern apartments. This beautiful building is very old and has a rich history. It is known as a Grade II* listed building, which means it's an important historical site.

History

Building a Grand Home

The building we see today was designed in 1833. A famous architect named John Dobson created its plans. He designed it for Peter Dixon, who owned a large cotton mill nearby. The house was built between 1833 and 1837.

People say this huge house has some amazing features. It is believed to have seven entrances. It also has 52 chimney pots on its roof. And guess what? It's said to have 365 windows, one for each day of the year! In 1875, the house was sold to a new owner, William Watson.

Changing Uses Over Time

Holme Eden Abbey has had many different lives. From 1921 to 1983, it was a real abbey. Benedictine nuns lived and worshipped there. After the nuns left, it became a special home for older people.

Later, the building was transformed again. It was carefully changed into twelve modern apartments. This project even won awards! The old walled garden around the abbey also got a new look. New homes were built inside it.

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