
Buckfast Abbey
A historic Benedictine Abbey on Dartmoor's edge, offering stunning architecture, serene gardens, and a unique monastic heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens are most colorful

Buckfast Abbey
Best Time
Gardens are most colorful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Benedictine Abbey on Dartmoor's edge, offering stunning architecture, serene gardens, and a unique monastic heritage.
"A beautiful Abbey in a peaceful location with wonderful architecture and gardens."

🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the sensory and lavender gardens; they're a peaceful escape.
🍷 Taste the Tonic Wine
Visit the gift shop to learn about and buy the unique Buckfast Tonic Wine.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Abbey Architecture
Abbey Church
Marvel at the impressive architecture and serene atmosphere of this working Benedictine monastery.

Peaceful Gardens
Various garden areas
Wander through immaculately maintained gardens, including the sensory and lavender gardens.

Buckfast Tonic Wine
Gift Shop
Discover the history and purchase the famous caffeinated fortified wine made by monks.

Vibrant Stained Glass
Abbey Church
Be captivated by the vibrant and beautiful stained glass windows within the Abbey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Parking
Beyond the Abbey Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the sensory and lavender gardens; they're a peaceful escape.
🍷 Taste the Tonic Wine
Visit the gift shop to learn about and buy the unique Buckfast Tonic Wine.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Abbey's stunning architecture is a photographer's dream.
🧺 Picnic Spots Available
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the well-maintained lawns.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the sensory and lavender gardens; they're a peaceful escape.
🍷 Taste the Tonic Wine
Visit the gift shop to learn about and buy the unique Buckfast Tonic Wine.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Abbey's stunning architecture is a photographer's dream.
🧺 Picnic Spots Available
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the well-maintained lawns.
🎶 Enjoy the Organ Music
Listen to the organ music if you're lucky enough to catch a performance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Buckfast Abbey for its stunning architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful, well-maintained gardens. The free entry and parking are significant highlights, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction. While some may be curious about the famous Buckfast Tonic Wine, the overall experience is one of tranquility and historical appreciation.
"A beautiful Abbey in a peaceful location (although I did visit at 6pm).
The architecture is wonderful, and there are some small gardens near the Abbey, tucked away behind hedging, making them feel like cosy pockets. The Millennium garden is interesting, with a beautiful stag sculpture.
Plenty of eateries around, toilets and a gift shop."
Tino N
"Lovely place to visit, very interesting. Stained glass is something to behold. Gift shop is great bought some fudge and chocolate that father Francis had made. Highly recommend the cheesecake in the restaurant."
Katie Chenery
"We stopped at Buckfast Abbey after collecting our youngest son from a sailing trip in Brixham. We were looking for somewhere interesting (and free!) to enjoy our picnic lunch—and we’re so glad we chose to visit.
Parking and entry were both free, though donations are welcomed. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with immaculate lawns, colourful gardens, and plenty of benches and picnic tables. There are lots of clear and informative signs explaining the features of the gardens and the history of the buildings.
The Abbey itself is stunning, with impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. The vibrant stained glass window was a real highlight. We ended our visit in the gift shop, which had a great selection of items to browse and buy.
Well worth a visit—we’re really glad we made the decision to stop here!"
mjdenness
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Buckfast Abbey is located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon. It's accessible by car, with free parking available on-site.
For public transport, you can take a train to Newton Abbot and then a bus service towards Buckfastleigh.Yes, Buckfast Abbey offers free parking for visitors, which is a significant plus for those driving.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach Buckfast Abbey via public transport. Take a train to Newton Abbot and then a local bus service that stops near the Abbey.
Buckfast Abbey is situated on the fringes of Dartmoor National Park, making it an easy stop if you're exploring the area. Follow local signage from Dartmoor towards Buckfastleigh.
The nearest major train station is Newton Abbot. From there, you can catch a bus to get closer to Buckfast Abbey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Buckfast Abbey offers free entry to visitors. Donations are welcomed to help maintain the Abbey and its grounds.
The Abbey grounds and shops are generally open daily, but it's always best to check the official Buckfast Abbey website for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially for specific areas like the Abbey Church.
Yes, the Abbey Church is a central part of the visit and is open to visitors. It's a working monastery, so be mindful of services.
As entry is free, advance booking is not required for general visits. However, if you plan to attend specific events or retreats, booking may be necessary.
Yes, donations are highly encouraged and appreciated to support the ongoing work and upkeep of Buckfast Abbey.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the stunning Abbey Church, wander through beautiful gardens, visit the gift shop for monastic products, and learn about the history of Buckfast Tonic Wine.
Absolutely! Buckfast Abbey features several lovely gardens, including a sensory garden and lavender garden, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Yes, the gift shop at Buckfast Abbey sells Buckfast Tonic Wine, along with other monastic products.
Yes, families can enjoy the open lawns for children to run around, the peaceful gardens, and the interesting architecture.
Information about Wi-Fi availability is not widely publicized, but it's generally not a primary amenity for visitors focused on the historical and spiritual aspects of the Abbey.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on-site that offers a range of food options, including highly recommended cheesecake.
Certainly! Buckfast Abbey has beautiful lawns and designated areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch.
The restaurant typically offers a selection of meals, snacks, and drinks. Reviews often highlight their delicious cheesecake.
While specific menus can vary, most restaurants at visitor attractions like Buckfast Abbey usually offer vegetarian options. It's advisable to check with the restaurant directly for vegan choices.
The gift shop offers a variety of items, including monastic products, fudge, chocolate, and potentially local wines and beers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most public areas of Buckfast Abbey, but it's always respectful to check for any specific restrictions, especially during services.
The Abbey's architecture, stained glass windows, and the serene gardens offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The exterior shots with the surrounding landscape are also stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and historical landmarks to ensure the privacy of residents and the preservation of the site. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to contact Buckfast Abbey directly to inquire about permissions and any associated fees.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photography, especially for the exterior shots. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant stained glass.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, as there are plenty of spots available. While the Abbey itself is a place of quiet contemplation, the gardens and open spaces provide ample room for kids to explore without disturbing the peace. The gift shop also offers a chance to pick up a small souvenir.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down further, pack your own picnic to enjoy on the grounds, rather than dining at the on-site restaurant. While the gift shop offers tempting monastic products like Buckfast Tonic Wine, browsing is free, and you can choose to purchase only if your budget allows.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
The well-maintained gardens offer serene walking paths, perfect for quiet contemplation and enjoying nature. The historical significance of the site, coupled with its ongoing monastic life, can provide a unique sense of connection and perspective. It's a place to escape the hustle and bustle and find a moment of calm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Rebuilding of Buckfast Abbey
The reconstruction was a monumental task, with the monks themselves playing a crucial role in its physical creation. This dedication and hard work are evident in the pristine condition of the Abbey today, a fact often noted by visitors comparing it to more weathered historical sites. The architectural style reflects a blend of Gothic Revival and Romanesque influences, creating a unique and imposing presence on the Devon landscape.
Today, Buckfast Abbey remains a working monastery, home to a community of Benedictine monks who continue the traditions of prayer, work, and hospitality. Visitors are welcome to experience the spiritual atmosphere, explore the beautiful grounds, and learn about the Abbey's enduring legacy. The story of its dissolution and subsequent rebirth adds a compelling layer to any visit.
Buckfast Tonic Wine: A Monastic Elixir
Initially marketed as a medicinal tonic, Buckfast Tonic Wine has developed a complex reputation over the years, particularly in certain regions of Scotland and Northern England. While it remains a product of the Abbey, its cultural perception extends far beyond its monastic origins. Visitors often express curiosity about its history and are keen to sample it from the source.
The gift shop at Buckfast Abbey is the primary place to purchase this distinctive beverage. It's an opportunity for visitors to connect with a unique piece of the Abbey's heritage and understand the story behind this well-known, albeit sometimes controversial, monastic product.
The Gardens of Buckfast Abbey
Key features include the sensory garden, designed to engage all the senses with its varied textures, scents, and colours, and the lavender garden, which is particularly fragrant and visually appealing, especially when in bloom. There are also expansive, manicured lawns that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. Informative signs throughout the gardens offer insights into the plants and their significance.
Whether you're a keen gardener or simply seeking a moment of calm, the gardens at Buckfast Abbey offer a delightful experience. They are a testament to the care and dedication of the Abbey's groundskeepers and provide a serene environment for visitors to relax and recharge.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit