The Friars, Aylesford Priory

Working Priory with resident Carmelite Priests

The Friars offer a limited number of multi-occupant bedrooms with shared bathroom facilities to pilgrims at a reduced rate as part of the Sanctuary scheme. Unusually for Sanctuary these rooms come with real beds! If the pilgrim Sanctuary rooms are already booked up, the Friary also offers traditional accommodation options as part of their regular programme of retreats. Meals are available for an additonal charge and can be booked via Reception.

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. The Friars was always a traditional stop in medieval times and, in fact, the Pilgrims’ Hall, the oldest building at The Friars, is so named because it offered hospitality and accommodation for travellers to Canterbury. This custom of hospitality to Pilgrims continues today.

See the official website