Buckfast Abbey is located on the edge of Dartmoor. Visitors return for the tranquillity frequently.
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Buckfast Abbey

4.7
·4k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring/Summer mornings

Gardens are most colorful

CrowdLow
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Buckfast Abbey is located on the edge of Dartmoor. Visitors return for the tranquillity frequently.

Buckfast Abbey

Best Time

Spring/Summer mornings

Gardens are most colorful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(4k reviews)

"A beautiful Abbey in a peaceful location with wonderful architecture and gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Abbey Architecture

Stunning Abbey Architecture

Abbey Church

Marvel at the impressive architecture and serene atmosphere of this working Benedictine monastery.

InstagramReddit
Peaceful Gardens

Peaceful Gardens

Various garden areas

Wander through immaculately maintained gardens, including the sensory and lavender gardens.

InstagramReddit
Buckfast Tonic Wine

Buckfast Tonic Wine

Gift Shop

Discover the history and purchase the famous caffeinated fortified wine made by monks.

TikTokInstagram
Vibrant Stained Glass

Vibrant Stained Glass

Abbey Church

Be captivated by the vibrant and beautiful stained glass windows within the Abbey.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy Buckfast Abbey without an admission fee! Parking is also free, though donations are gratefully accepted. This makes it a fantastic budget-friendly option for a day out in Devon. Reddit

Beyond the Abbey Walls

While the Abbey itself is the main draw, explore the beautiful gardens, browse the gift shop for monastic products, and learn about the history of Buckfast Tonic Wine. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Spring/Summer mornings
Why
Gardens are most colorful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium
When
Christmas season
Why
Festive atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The one with the wine, the wool and the signs…I’ve never seen a sign that more obviously says “this sign is here because health and safety regulations say we need one” 😂 #fyp #foryou #softgirlhike #hike #sundaywalk #weekendwalk #weekendwonder #dartmoor #devon #buckfastabbey #buckfastwine #buckfasttonicwine #abandonedchurch #ruinedchurch #abandonedbuilding #haunted #hauntedbuilding #sherlockholmes...
@lauriealyceadventures
1.3K likes • 20.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the sensory and lavender gardens; they're a peaceful escape. InstagramReddit

🍷 Taste the Tonic Wine

Visit the gift shop to learn about and buy the unique Buckfast Tonic Wine. TikTokInstagram

Buckfast Abbey Christmas 24 🤮 #fyp #buckfast #wineseason
@keeva_mcallister
1.1K likes • 41.1K views
Sweet Sacrament divine, sung by the Choir of Buckfast Abbey, taken from their latest album, O Sacrum Convivium! Listen now (link in bio) #CorpusChristi
adfontesrecords
0 likes • 590 views

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Abbey's stunning architecture is a photographer's dream. TikTokInstagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the well-maintained lawns. Reddit

Fr Dominic found beauty and nourishment on retreat at Buckfast Abbey. Book your place on the next one by visiting our events page (link in bio)
buckfastabbeyofficial
75 likes • 995 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the sensory and lavender gardens; they're a peaceful escape. InstagramReddit

🍷 Taste the Tonic Wine

Visit the gift shop to learn about and buy the unique Buckfast Tonic Wine. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Abbey's stunning architecture is a photographer's dream. TikTokInstagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the well-maintained lawns. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy the Organ Music

Listen to the organ music if you're lucky enough to catch a performance. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Peaceful gardens
Free entry and parking

What People Dislike

Can be busy during peak times

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. Reddit For public transport, you can take a train to Newton Abbot and then a bus service towards Buckfastleigh. TikTok

Yes, Buckfast Abbey offers free parking for visitors, which is a significant plus for those driving. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

The nearest major train station is Newton Abbot. From there, you can catch a bus to get closer to Buckfast Abbey. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Buckfast Abbey offers free entry to visitors. Donations are welcomed to help maintain the Abbey and its grounds. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram

Yes, donations are highly encouraged and appreciated to support the ongoing work and upkeep of Buckfast Abbey. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! Buckfast Abbey features several lovely gardens, including a sensory garden and lavender garden, perfect for a peaceful stroll. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, the gift shop at Buckfast Abbey sells Buckfast Tonic Wine, along with other monastic products. TikTokReddit

Yes, families can enjoy the open lawns for children to run around, the peaceful gardens, and the interesting architecture. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant on-site that offers a range of food options, including highly recommended cheesecake. Reddit

Certainly! Buckfast Abbey has beautiful lawns and designated areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch. Reddit

The restaurant typically offers a selection of meals, snacks, and drinks. Reviews often highlight their delicious cheesecake. Reddit

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. Reddit

The gift shop offers a variety of items, including monastic products, fudge, chocolate, and potentially local wines and beers. Reddit+1

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

For commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to contact Buckfast Abbey directly to inquire about permissions and any associated fees. TikTok

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Buckfast Abbey is a surprisingly family-friendly destination. Entry and parking are free, making it an economical choice for a day out. InstagramReddit The expansive, well-kept lawns are perfect for children to run around and burn off energy. The gardens offer a pleasant space for a family stroll, and the historical aspect of the Abbey can spark curiosity in younger minds. Reddit

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. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Buckfast Abbey is a gem. The fact that both entry and parking are free is a major draw. InstagramReddit This allows visitors to experience a significant historical and spiritual site without any financial pressure. You can spend hours exploring the Abbey, its gardens, and learning about its history without spending a penny on admission.

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. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

Buckfast Abbey offers a profoundly peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, making it ideal for solo travelers or those seeking a spiritual experience. The Abbey Church provides a quiet space for reflection and prayer, with the presence of Benedictine monks adding to the spiritual ambiance. TikTokInstagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Rebuilding of Buckfast Abbey

Buckfast Abbey boasts a rich and complex history, with its origins tracing back to 1018. The original Benedictine monastery was dissolved in 1539 during the reign of Henry VIII. For centuries, the site lay in ruins. The current Abbey is a testament to a remarkable feat of reconstruction, largely undertaken in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by Benedictine monks who returned to the site. This rebuilding effort is a significant part of its story, distinguishing it from many older abbeys that have undergone continuous occupation and modification. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

Buckfast Tonic Wine: A Monastic Elixir

Perhaps one of the most talked-about aspects of Buckfast Abbey is its connection to Buckfast Tonic Wine, often colloquially known as 'Buckfast' or 'Bucky'. This unique fortified wine was originally created by Benedictine monks at the Abbey in the early 20th century. It's characterized by its high alcohol content (around 15%) and the inclusion of caffeine, a combination that set it apart from traditional wines. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokReddit

The Gardens of Buckfast Abbey

The grounds of Buckfast Abbey are as much a draw as the Abbey itself, offering tranquil spaces for reflection and enjoyment. Visitors consistently praise the immaculately maintained gardens, which provide a beautiful contrast to the historic architecture. These gardens are designed to be a peaceful retreat, inviting visitors to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty. InstagramReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram+1

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