Belmont Abbey

A church attached to a Benedictine monastery which is a fairly modern building from the 19th century but no less beautiful than the Norman churches that surround it. Built on a hill overlooking Hereford, it’s peaceful location a perfect area for the monks and congregation. It’s gothic architecture gives you that post medieval feel and stained glass windows glow from the outside light giving the church interior an ethereal feel. It was more so on my visit as a special sermon had just finished and the lingering smoke and aroma of burning incense gave it a rather special experience. Despite its lack of age, this should be added to a visit list of churches to visit.

I have just visited this rather beautiful Abbey today . Those eagle eyed amongst you that can see that Robin sat on the Crucifix in my picture . At the risk of sounding crazy he was a rather clever little chap . He put on quite a show for me . He took off and flapped his wings like mad and hovered mid air right infront of me for what seemed like ages . I have seen lots of Robins in my time but never knew they could do that . I couldn't work out if he was welcoming me or warning me off . I like to think the former but it is more than likely the latter I don't really belong in Church . That is by the by, but I was impressed with him . Belmont Abbey is really peaceful and quite beautiful I only by chance stumbled across it having visited Hereford . I am surprised I hadn't heard of it as I am a great fan of Augustus Welby Pugin and this Abbey was designed by his son Edward . It was built in the Gothic Revival style started in 1857 and finished in 1875 . Now that was about 18 years well spent in my opinion . I never quite understand some of these gradings but this is Grade 11 listed . Inside it is quite stunning with fantastic carvings and stained glass . It is a Benedictine Abbey and I actually met one of the monk's in the shop . He was very informative and welcoming . I consider myself very fortunate to have stumbled across such a welcoming and peaceful place . I would certainly recommend a visit .

Always a wonderful service and everyone is friendly, in a spectacular location and church building. I find Dedon Eddy very welcoming and an asset to the Abbey. One comment, the teas and coffee after service was hard to locate and I felt better instructions and signs after mass to this gathering of fellowship would be much appreciated. God bless