New photos coming soon
The complex was started in 1876 and the development of the first structures led to the growth of a large range of new buildings. The imposing neo-Gothic complex was completed in 1935 with the consecration of the monumental Abbey. The monastery has a guesthouse with 11 rooms (en-suite) open only to men for spiritual retreats. There is also Self-catering hospitality intended for groups of young people is available in Bainesbury House on the monastery grounds. There is 1 single room, 1 double and 3 dormitories. Extra beds can be provided on request.
The Downside Community started at the monastery of Saint Gregory in Douai, Flanders then under Spanish authority. In 1606 a group of monks who had entered Spanish monasteries after the suppression of monastic life in England established a house and school near the English Channel. They chose their location so they could easily cross the Channel to serve the Catholic community in secret. When arrested they faced the death penalty. Six of the monks were beatified in 1929 and two canonized in 1970. The community returned to England after the French Revolution when Douai was captured by the French. Upon their arrival, they settled at Acton Burnell, Shropshire before establishing their present community in 1814.
Meals are not supplied. Guests are to be self-catering and clean up upon leaving the guesthouse.
Linens are supplied, towels are not. There is a kitchen, living room with a small library of religious books and other literature. The dining room is next to the kitchen. There is central heating and carpeting throughout the house. Shops are a few minutes away.
Accommodation within monastery
Linen included
Recommended walks
Historic houses
Gardens
(The abbey is approximately a 2 1/2 hour drive from London.) By car: Take M4 to exit #18 and then take A46 to Bath. Once in Bath take A367 (Bath-Shepton Mallet) to Stratton-on-the-Fosse. On entering Stratton-on-the-Fosse turn right and the Abbey will be on the right. To enter the Abbey, turn right down a sign-posted narrow road about fifty meters before the Stratton-on-the-Fosse War Memorial.
By train: Take a train from London’s Paddington Station to Bath, then a taxi or local bus to Stratton-on-the-Fosse (get off at the War Memorial). From the North, Midlands or West, take a train to Bristol’s Temple Meads Station and a taxi to the Abbey.
