Launde Abbey

I stopped by on my way to Sauvey castle, just up the road. It’s a calm spot among parkland and walled gardens, with a small cafe serving nice food and seating indoors and out.

The grounds were a real highlight, with sheep in view, a vegetable garden and the Quiet Garden. I spent five days at Launde Abbey and found the food great, while the staff were attentive and helpful. My room was simple but comfortable. As a wheelchair user, I could reach most parts of the building, though often by taking a different route from my group. At times I had to leave and come back in through another ramped entrance, such as at the Stables to get from the meeting room to the chapel.

The staff are lovely, and the coffee shop food is wonderful. It’s a beautiful, quiet place to wander, with gorgeous chapels and a powerful sense of the Holy Spirit. You can explore at your own pace or book a residential retreat. There’s something for everyone.

I came away feeling spiritually refreshed. It’s a lovely place to find some quiet, in a beautiful house surrounded by equally beautiful countryside. The food was very good, especially breakfast, though portions at the other meals were healthy rather than generous.