Aylesford Priory

Aylesford Priory or 'The Friars' is the home to a small community of Carmelite Friars, who first came here in 1242.

Aylesford, Kent

Opening times

The Friars is open 365 days a year and entry is free.
The grounds are open 24/7, the chapels are locked at dusk.

The Tea Room, Gift shop and Pottery have set opening hours which are as follows:
March to October:
Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm.
Sunday 10am to 5pm.

November to March:
Monday to Saturday 10am to 3.30pm.
Sunday 10am to 3.30pm.
Please note The Tea Room, Gift Shop and Pottery are closed between Christmas and New Year.

Address

The Friars (Shrine of Our Lady and Saint Simon Stock)
High Street
Aylesford
Kent
ME20 7BX

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 breathtaking 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 homemade 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 tranquillity and relaxation amidst breathtaking medieval history.

  • Wildlife haven

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Social heritage stories

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Famous connections

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Wifi

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Level access throughout

  • Church shop or souvenirs

  • Car park at church

  • Café in church

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Accessible toilets in church

  • Mass times: 12noon Monday to Saturday, 10.15am Sunday.

  • Confessions: 10.30am to 11.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm Monday to Saturday, 2.30pm to 4pm Sunday.

  • Morning prayer: 8am Monday to Saturday, 8.45am Sunday.

  • Evening Prayer: 6.30pm Monday to Sunday.

  • Catholic Church

Contact information

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