St.Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth (Benedictine monastery) — Attraction in Waverley

I stayed the weekend at St.Augustine's Abbey in September 2024 as I was looking for a place to recharge spiritually after a particularly busy period at work. I didn't know much about the Abbey before I arrived however it was immediately obviously upon arriving that this was somewhere special. Nestled in the Surrey countryside, the Abbey is on the doorstep of the Surrey Hills and the peaceful countryside setting only adds to the serenity. The guesthouse is adjoined to the main church, and the rooms and simple yet without the distraction of modern technology, provided me with one of the best nights sleep I have had in a while. The Monks and incredibly welcoming and I felt immediately at ease around them. Being so close to the church, it was easy to join in with the various services throughout the day and easy to get into the rhythm and routine of the place. I've found the whole experience really helped to created the peace, quiet and space so important in fostering a deeper relationship with God. Weather Catholic or otherwise I would highly recommend a stay at St.Augustine's Abbey and cannot...

I have only visited the community once at Chilworth, when Dom Francis passed away. It’s an absolutely beautiful, prayerful environment. I had previously been a regular visitor to St Augustine’s abbey, Ramsgate, from 1997 through to 2008. I would like to thank the community for the essential ministry they provide, living out the rule of St Benedict in these difficult and uncertain times. I miss the community immensely and view their presence in the world as pricelessly precious.

Though I have wandered far, I hope and pray that God will guide me back, and I ask the community to kindly pray for me and all lost sheep, that all will be gathered...

Quite a different experience from what was portrayed on the BBC. There's an eerie atmosphere as you drive in towards the abbey and just opposite the car park, a homeless man has set up camp in a small hut. Inside the abbey, it's nice but feels unwelcoming as the strange atmosphere continues. Perhaps it was quiet but we've been to other abbeys during the day, including Worth abbey, and felt something different. Finally, we were expecting to buy some products but there was no sign of anything or anyone. We felt let down but there's a...