The Abbey, Oxfordshire, England

The Abbey retreat centre in the village of Sutton Courtenay, Oxfordshire, Southern England, has been operating for thirty years now. Originally a courtyard house, the building dates back to the thirteenth century and includes the fourteenth century Great Hall, which has an arched oak roof. The nearby Manor House originated as a great medieval hall, and was frequented by King Henry I before being taken over by the Courtenay family, who gave their name to the village. Since 1980, The Abbey has been a centre for spiritual enquiry.

Rooted in the judeo-christian tradition, since its inauguration as a modern day retreat centre, The Abbey opens its doors to all spiritual seekers wishing to either stay at the centre for retreat and spiritual enquiry, or to attend one of the courses it runs. Thanks to this inclusive philosophy, it has evolved into a centre for the universal exploration of spirituality. At the heart of the Abbey is a small residential community.

Meeting Rooms

Within the main building at The Abbey, four historic rooms including the Hearth, the Solar, the library, and the Great Hall, can accommodate groups of twelve to one hundred people. The Abbey is able to provide varied seating arrangements, tables, flipcharts and audiovisual equipment.

The Hearth is on the ground floor. With a beamed ceiling, a log fire, and views over the garden, it seats up to eighteen people. The Solar is in the oldest part of the building (dating from around 1280), on the first floor. It has timber beams, a log fire, and views over the medieval courtyard and garden and seats up to twelve people. The Library is on the first floor and has magnificent stained glass windows overlooking the gardens. It seats up to fourteen in armchairs. The Great Hall has a timber vaulted ceiling, wooden floor, magnificent fireplace, french windows opening on to the garden and a grand piano. This space is very flexible and can accommodate up to eighty people theatre style or one hundred for standing events. It is even wheel chair accessible with assistance.

Accommodation

Accommodation for up to twenty people is available in a variety of charming bedrooms that look out onto the surrounding lush green gardens.

Retreatants and conference guests are served high quality vegetarian meals, often sourced from The Abbey’s own vegetable gardens, and sleeping quarters are simple but comfortable.

Gardens and Walks

The Abbey is set in the midst of four acres of beautiful grounds that include mature trees, a woodland path, a labryinth and tranquil sitting areas, which all guests are welcome to explore and enjoy. There are also picturesque walks through the old village and along the nearby Thames.

The intention of The Abbey is to welcome all who wish to visit and are open to self- enquiry, community and spiritual growth. Please Make an Enquiry for further information.