Quarr Abbey — Attraction in Fishbourne

Allowing us to stay was to give us access to a private sanctuary of what is otherwise a closed order of Benedictine monks in a building built solely for them so to use it. Thus it is not a hotel or otherwise intended for the public and the amenities must be viewed accordingly. One monk has been assigned by the Abbot to deal with guests and their needs - Father Nicholas - and he does so with patience, understanding, availability and application of resources that would put the average guest house proprietor to shame. The rooms we each had were somewhat basic (as I would expect save that my friend had a very comfortable en suite ) but serviceable and sufficient - perhaps even atmospheric as consistent with the place. We had the privilege of being allowed to participate in the services and enjoy the sound of the chanting that is such an essential part. The grounds are large with plenty of wooden seating, a cafe, a visitors centre / art gallery, a wood walk and some very endearing pigs. The building itself is unique and fascinating in design. In silence we dined and enjoyed the high quality food all be better by so doing. The numerous rings of bells soon stopped disturbing and became another pleasure. The only cloud in an otherwise blue sky was that silence was difficult to find, not least because fellow guests did not seem to want it and the grounds are open to all whom also did not seem to appreciate the essence of the...

Allowing us to stay was to give us access to a private sanctuary of what is otherwise a closed order of Benedictine monks in a building built solely for them so to use it. Thus it is not a hotel or otherwise intended for the public and the amenities must be viewed accordingly. One monk has been assigned by the Abbot to deal with guests and their needs - Father Nicholas - and he does so with patience, understanding, availability and application of resources that would put the average guest house proprietor to shame. The rooms we each had were somewhat basic (as I would expect save that my friend had a very comfortable en suite ) but serviceable and sufficient - perhaps even atmospheric as consistent with the place. We had the privilege of being allowed to participate in the services and enjoy the sound of the chanting that is such an essential part. The grounds are large with plenty of wooden seating, a cafe, a visitors centre / art gallery, a wood walk and some very endearing pigs. The building itself is unique and fascinating in design. In silence we dined and enjoyed the high quality food all be better by so doing. The numerous rings of bells soon stopped disturbing and became another pleasure. The only cloud in an otherwise blue sky was that silence was difficult to find, not least because fellow guests did not seem to want it and the grounds are open to all whom also did not seem to appreciate the essence of the...

I only stayed for three nights but wish it was more. The peace and solitude is quite amazing and exactly what I needed .||To be invited into the monks lifestyle is a unique experience which will stay with me forever. They partake in 7 services a day and their sacrifice and dedication is to be greatly admired. ||Father Nicholas made me feel very welcome and also introduced me to the Abbot , Father Xavier. ||They both thanked me for staying and on my last day made me feel welcome to return which I plan to in March.||Do not expect big helpings at meal times , it is not like that. There are certain behaviour rules to be adhered which will be explained..i.e. stand in front of your table whilst grace is said, no talking at all during meals.. that sort of thing. ||My room was very basic , the en suite rooms had gone but toilet and shower facilities are just along the corridor and are very clean and tidy. There is a common room where you can meet other guests and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.||After breakfast I walked through the acres of wild woodland at the rear of the Abbey and found it truly stunning. It is unspoilt and full of Red Squirrels, pheasants , woodpeckers etc etc a real must do.||Apart from that I spent a lot of time in the peaceful retreat of my room reading, writing and thinking. ||Just what I needed.||I have come away refreshed and at ease and looking forward to my next...