Turvey Abbey

Turvey Abbey in the village of Turvey, Bedfordshire, is a Jacobean country house that has been home to a Benedictine community since 1980. Despite the name, it was never a medieval abbey: it is a private house turned monastery, listed Grade II on the National Heritage List for England.

Is Turvey Abbey a real abbey?

Not in the medieval sense. The house dates from the early 1600s, with 1605 carved on the north front and 1608 on the south. The walls are stone under a tiled roof, and the Historic England entry allows that an earlier building may be hidden within. Lay families lived here for centuries, and the windows reflect a 19th-century remodelling. The moulded parapet, finials and classical porch were brought in the early 1800s from Easton Maudit in Northamptonshire.

The "Abbey" name stuck long before any monks arrived. In 1980 a community from Cockfosters, north London, took the house: three monks and fourteen nuns. They follow the Rule of St Benedict and belong to the Olivetan family of Benedictines. Strictly speaking the house is a priory, the Priory of Our Lady of Peace, led by a prior rather than an abbot, but the community kept the old name.

What else is there to see nearby?

Several other structures of the former estate are Grade II listed. They include the Garden House, which has 1829 on its battlements, and a dovecote that no longer belongs to the community. The cottages of Abbey Square and The Covey are also listed, described as a coherent group of estate housing. Turvey village is pleasant to explore on foot, and the parish church of All Saints stands close by.

Can you visit?

The abbey is a living religious house and is not open to the general public. Individual day guests are accepted, though there is no overnight accommodation and no booking for day groups. Visitors of any faith can sit in the main chapel and join the community's prayer. The Blessed Sacrament Chapel is closed to the public. On arrival, ring the front door bell. Guest bookings go through the retreat secretary ([email protected], tel. 01234 881432).

When should you go?

Mass with Lauds is held in the chapel at 8.30 am, on Sundays and weekdays. Times can change, especially in summer, so confirm the current schedule with the community before travelling. A separate community, the Monastery of Christ Our Saviour, lies next door. If you are heading there, use Jack's Lane rather than parking at the abbey.

Frequently asked questions

Is Turvey Abbey a listed building? Yes. It has been on the Historic England list at Grade II since 7 May 1952.

Is it a medieval monastery? No. The present house is early 17th century, and religious life began here in 1980.

Can I stay overnight? According to the community, no accommodation is offered. Day guests are welcome by prior arrangement.

Which order lives here? Benedictines of the Olivetan family, living by the Rule of St Benedict.