Buckfast Abbey

About

Buckfast Abbey, situated on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, is a living testament to centuries of monastic life. Founded in the 11th century and re‑established by French Benedictines in 1882, the abbey is renowned for its striking architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous Buckfast Tonic Wine. Visitors today can wander through the medieval cloisters, explore the Monastic Way Exhibition – which is free for children under 11 – and enjoy the Abbey’s vibrant cultural life, including choirs and regular Masses. The Abbey welcomes tourists from Monday to Saturday between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm (open last admission at 3:30 pm), while the visitor centre and shop remain open until 4:30 pm. Sunday visitors can explore the Gardens and the Visitor Welcome Centre between 11:30 am and 4:30 pm, but the Abbey gates close on the lowest Sunday of each month. Dining is available at the Grange Restaurant, which operates daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the on‑site San Benedetto's Pizzeria offers both dine‑in and takeaway. Buckfast Abbey is not only a place of worship but also a cultural hub, hosting a range of exhibitions, music performances, and educational events. Its rich history, combined with lush surroundings and its unique monastic wine, makes it a rewarding destination for travelers of all ages.

Highlights

• Monastic Way Exhibition
• St Mary's Abbey Church
• The Grange Restaurant

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 3 hours