Compare Hotels Near Buckfast Abbey

Devon has a great range of historic attractions for the interested visitor, as well as a diverse and exciting coastline and landscapes such as Dartmoor which have formed the backdrop to many an atmospheric tale. There are plenty of B&Bs, family-run guesthouses and smart hotels in Devon which make ideal accommodation options, allowing quick and easy access to attractions such as Buckfast Abbey, saturated in history and well worth a visit while you're here.

Buckfast Abbey from Devon Hotels

Buckfast Abbey dominates the small market town of Buckfastleigh, which is situated on the very edge of Dartmoor. The original abbey here was founded by the Normans soon after the Conquest but along with many other abbeys across England it fell victim to Henry VIII during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in Tudor times. Like most of them it ended up falling into ruin, but fortunately in 1882 a group of Benedictine Monks from France set up a new abbey on the same spot. The present day abbey was built partly with donated money and much of the work was carried out by the monks themselves.

Devon Hotels for Exploring Buckfast Abbey

Buckfast Abbey's story turned out to be a happy one and full of surprises, not least of which was the arrival of the French monks and their determination to restore the sad old ruin. The restoration of the abbey was not completed until 1938 and nowadays it stands at the very heart of a thriving local community. Visitors who come here admire the modern stained glass window and fine mosaics which were the work of the monks, and can enjoy refreshments in the local high street cafés, pubs and restaurants.

While you're based nearby in B&B or hotel accommodation in Devon, there are numerous other attractions to see in the surrounding area. They include the Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Otter Sanctuary, a conservation area which also runs regular projects and hold workshops for schoolchildren, college students and visitors. It's well worth a visit if you're staying at a local guesthouse or hotel for any length of time, and is easy to reach.