Buckfast Abbey - Buckfastleigh

Buckfast Abbey is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or spirituality. Located in Buckfastleigh, TQ11 0EE, United Kingdom, this Catholic church and monastery is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist attraction, conference center, hotel, and restaurant.

The Abbey's history dates back to 1018 when it was first founded by King Canute. However, the current building was constructed in the early 20th century in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. One of the Abbey's most striking features is its stunning architecture, which includes intricate carvings, beautiful stained glass windows, and a bell tower that can be seen for miles around.

Apart from its architectural beauty, Buckfast Abbey is also famous for its onsite services, such as a wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible parking lot, and restroom facilities. The Abbey also offers free parking and has a restaurant that serves delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients.

Buckfast Abbey has received an impressive 3939 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.7/5. Many visitors have praised the Abbey's peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, as well as its beautiful architecture and friendly staff.

If you're planning a visit to Buckfast Abbey, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to dress appropriately when visiting the Catholic church. Secondly, the Abbey is a popular tourist attraction, so it can get busy during peak times. However, there is plenty of parking available, and the Abbey is easily accessible by car or public transport.

Reviews of Buckfast Abbey

Adam Solly

5/5

It's a lovely free day out, apart from the donations and lunch, but I don't think that counts.
I'm not religious, but I do appreciate other people's faith and religions with a personal love of architecture.
The Abbey does not disappoint, and I left with a feeling that I must return to hear the choir sing.
A fantastic day was had, lots spent on alcohol to take home from the gift shop.

KS

5/5

Beautiful, serene place to visit. We have been here a few times over the years, and I have always said I am amazed they don't charge for access to the Abbey or grounds, so we always leave a donation on the box in the Abbey, and have noticed this year there are digital points to make donations too which I think is fantastic. We bought some patio roses at the gift shop and some traditional cider too.

Tracey Lingard

5/5

A lovely day out, free as well. Organist was playing I just wanted sit there all day, felt very peaceful and calming. Cafe great selection of hot and cold food and drinks, perfect surroundings great prices. Gift shop too

Siobhan

5/5

Peaceful and beautiful. We went on a Sunday and stood outside the Abbey listening to the Gregorian chants coming from inside. It was serene and the grounds are well kept and lovely.

Sarah Parrish

5/5

This place is so peaceful, relaxing and welcoming. The Abbey and gardens are stunning. The exhibition explaining the daily activities undertaken by the monks is really interesting. The restaurant has an excellent choice of foods for a snack or meal and the staff are really friendly. I will definitely be visiting again soon.

Stephen Pritchett

5/5

Had a little walk around here after visiting the Dart country park. Well worth a stop off. Gardens were interesting but not at their best at end of September. Best public toilets ever!! Also free parking.

Julie Smith

5/5

Beautiful Abbey and free entry with voluntary donations.
Lovely grounds with Free parking.
As back garden beekeepers we thought it was a shame there was not more information related to Buckfast bees also no Buckfast honey on sale.
Plenty of honey bees can be seen on the flowers in the garden.
The cafe was very good with friendly staff & good choice of hot meals & vegetarian vegan selection.

Ian Hemmens

5/5

Stunning grounds and buildings reborn some three hundred years post Henry VIII's dissolution. There is a calmness and serenity here, and the world's problems appear to dissolve. They of course don't, and the monks have a hand in providing various philanthropic activities and support, both locally and internationally. My favourite parts of the abbey are the upstairs veranda of the coffee shop nearest the conference centre, giving a wonderful view of the grounds; the herb garden including the pond with advanced tadpoles swimming, not far off losing their tails; the modern stained glass image of Christ in the church itself: It was moving and humbling to be in its presence. Dogs are welcomed throughout the grounds, but are barred from the buildings, apart from assistance dogs. You are welcomed onto the grass, with a variety of signs telling of this fact. Good parking, and most areas are accessible by wheelchair (I can't vouch for all) and there are wheelchair lifts in buildings to access the higher levels. Food looks gorgeous in the cafes! Well stocked shop, with some great finds, including books, and beeswax candles from the bee hives they attend. Overall, a very wonderful day spent here, one I wish to repeat in the not too distant future!