A Warm Welcome to The Friars, Aylesford
The Friars is the home to a small community of Carmelite Friars, who first came here in 1242. The Carmelites left at the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538. However, they were able to return in 1949. Today, The Friars is one of Kent’s hidden treasures and in the last decade it has become more and more part of the county. Visitors can enjoy the breath taking grounds and stunning medieval buildings, enjoy walks down the Peace Garden and Rosary Way and children can feed the ducks or run some of their energy off. If you love history then this is the place to be. Come and experience the amazing work of art by Polish artist Adam Kossowski. Pop into the pottery to see local artisans at work.
For some religious inspiration or some quiet space visit the chapels ranging from the simple, medieval Cloister Chapel to the awe inspiring St Joseph’s Chapel. And when all the activity is over and you’re hungry, pop into the Tea Room for delicious home-made cakes and snacks. Or have lunch in the 13th century Pilgrims’ Hall where you can treat yourself to a sumptuous meal made from scratch and with local produce by our expert chefs. And the gift shop is perfect to end your visit to grab souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones. Experience tranquility and relaxation amidst breath taking medieval history.
During these unsettled and frightening times so many people are suffering .
You will be aware that most charities have been affected. The Friars are
appealing, that if you are in a position to give a donation, it would be
very much appreciated by the Carmelites. We hope to maintain The Friars as
a place of peace, welcome and hospitality for all. Please help us if you
are able. Please be assured of the prayers of the Carmelite community who
pray twice daily for all pilgrims.
DONATE NOW
The Tea Room & Gift Shop
Visit our beautifully restored 17th century thatched barn.
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The Great Courtyard
Discover the oldest part of the Friars.
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Pilgrims' Hall
The oldest building in the Great Courtyard, probably late 13th century
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Prior’s Hall
Entered by a stone horse mount on the east side of the Great Courtyard
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The Main Shrine
Open-air Mass is held throughout summer in the spacious piazza
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The Chapels
Cloister Chapel, Choir Chapel, St Anne’s Chapel and St Joseph’s Chapel
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Grounds and Gardens
The Rosary Way, The Peace Garden and The Duck Pond
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The North & West Barn
Our restored 17th-century West barn, houses a tearoom and shop. The North Barn is available for events
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Pottery
The tradition of producing hand-made Japanese glazed stoneware is continuing at The Friars.
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Pilgrims' Newsletter
The Friars issues a quarterly newsletter, which is traditionally written by the resident Prior. It is a great way to be kept informed of news and events at The Friars and it is also a very important outreach to our friends and supporters who can no longer physically visit our beautiful Priory. It is easy to sign up for the newsletter and you may do so with no obligation.
Each newsletter comes with Novena prayers and a Mass intentions form. If you would like to sign up you can email us at newsletter@thefriars.org.uk or you can call us on 01622 717272 or write to us at Newsletter Office, The Friars, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7BX. You can receive the newsletter via post or electronically.
Conference and Meeting Facilities
If you are looking for a spectacular venue to hold your meetings, seminars, conferences, training courses, yoga classes, team building, retreats or mindfulness classes then look no further than The Friars.
Accommodation
If you are visiting Kent and staying over why don’t you spend the night at The Friars Aylesford. The medieval Priory houses an 80 bedroom guesthouse set within acres of beautiful grounds.
