Buckfast Abbey

Buckfast Abbey is a living Benedictine monastery and spiritual haven nestled in a picturesque valley in Devon.

What it is and where to find it
A Living Community: It is home to a working community of Roman Catholic monks who live according to the ancient Rule of St Benedict.
Location: The Abbey is located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in the town of Buckfastleigh, Devon (TQ11 0EE), situated between Exeter and Plymouth.

What to see and do
Abbey Church: Marvel at the awe-inspiring architecture, featuring a dramatic lantern ceiling and the Blessed Sacrament Chapel with its modern stained-glass interpretation of Christ.
Themed Gardens: Explore the award-winning Millennium Garden, the Physic Garden (with medieval medicinal plants), the Sensory Garden, and a Lavender Garden featuring over 50 varieties.
Exhibitions: Visit the Monastic Way Exhibition, an immersive presentation of Benedictine life from its origins to today.
Shopping & Dining: Browse the shops for unique monastic products like Buckfast Abbey fudge and the world-famous Buckfast Tonic Wine. Enjoy a cream tea or a carvery lunch at The Grange Restaurant.

Who should go and when
Audience: It is ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers looking for serenity, history, or a peaceful day out.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months are best for seeing the Lavender Garden in full bloom. For a spiritual experience, visit during choir services (often at 3:00 pm on Sundays).
Hours: The gardens and car park are generally open from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm, while the Abbey Church is open from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm (closing during service times for general visitors).

What makes it unique
A “Modern Miracle”: It is the only English Benedictine monastery to be re-founded on its original pre-Reformation site. The current church was painstakingly rebuilt by a small group of monks themselves between 1906 and 1937.
Monastic Products: It is globally famous for Buckfast Tonic Wine, originally created by the monks as a medicinal tonic.

Booking tips and offers
Free Entry: Admission to the Abbey Church, gardens, and car park is free (donations are welcome).
Exhibition Fee: The Monastic Way Exhibition has a small entry fee of £2 per person (free for children 11 and under).
Dining Bookings: While not always essential, booking ahead for Sunday Carvery or evening dining at San Benedetto’s is highly advisable.
Groups: Pre-booking is mandatory for coaches and large groups of 20 or more.
Accommodation: For a longer stay, you can book rooms at the onsite Northgate House Hotel.