Mount St Bernard Abbey

Mount St Bernard Abbey is a working Trappist monastery near Coalville in Leicestershire, on the edge of Charnwood Forest in the English Midlands. Its monks belong to the Cistercians of the Strict Observance, and the buildings mark a key moment in the story of English Catholic architecture.

What is Mount St Bernard Abbey?

Founded in 1835, it was the first permanent monastery established in England after the Reformation, and it remains the only Trappist house in the country. The community lives by a daily pattern of prayer and work. The abbey sits in the parish of Charley, within the old parish of Whitwick.

Who designed it, and is it protected?

The church choir, the cloister ranges and the central block of the guest house date from 1839–44 and follow designs by A.W.N. Pugin, the leading figure of the Gothic Revival. His original scheme was far more ambitious than what was built, and work on the church stopped in 1844. Edward Welby Pugin and Albert Herbert added later work. Between 1935 and 1939 the church was extended eastward, bringing a lay nave and a crossing tower. Historic England records the abbey as a Grade II listed building.

What will you see?

The abbey church is the main draw, pairing Victorian Gothic work with a much later extension. It is not a museum: the monks sing the daily offices here, so the mood is quiet and contemplative. A gift shop sells monastic products, souvenirs and Tynt Meadow, the first British Trappist beer, brewed since 2018 and 7.4% ABV.

Can you go inside?

Visitors can enter the church and the shop, but the enclosure and most monastery buildings are closed to the public. The National Churches Trust notes that the church has no fixed opening hours and that visitors are welcome. Shop hours differ between sources (generally Monday to Saturday, with breaks for prayer), so check mountsaintbernard.org before you travel. The guest house serves retreatants and people interested in monastic life rather than tourists, bookings go through the guestmaster, and the abbey website has carried a notice that guests are not currently being accepted.

How do you get there?

The abbey stands on Oaks Road in Whitwick, a few kilometres from Coalville town centre. Driving is easiest, and Charnwood Forest walking routes nearby make it simple to combine the visit with a hike. Leicester and Loughborough are the nearest larger towns.

Frequently asked questions

Is Mount St Bernard Abbey a working monastery?

Yes. It is an active Trappist abbey and the only one of its order in England. Keep quiet and respect the times of prayer.

Is there an entry fee?

There is no ticket for the church, and visitors are welcome. Check the abbey website for current guidance before you go.

Can I buy Trappist beer there?

Yes. Tynt Meadow is sold in the abbey shop and at selected local outlets.

Can I stay overnight?

The guest house is meant for retreatants and those interested in monastic life, and availability can be limited. Contact the guestmaster first.