Băile Herculane, Romania: The One With Hercules
October 23, 2023
Aylesford, Kent, England: The Kentish Stonehenge
October 25, 2023Originally a small riverside settlement, Aylesford is 4 miles northwest of Maidstone, in Kent, England
A Prayer and a Cuppa
When I’m not living the jet-set lifestyle, I like to adventure in the UK. I’m going to intersperse these blogs with some of my finds, starting with in The Friars Aylesford Priory, in Kent, England.
This unusual religious site is free to enter and open 365 days of the year. I have been here multiple times, whether to grab a slice of cake, or rest in the gardens, I always enjoy the tranquillity it provides.
The Religious Side
The site of the original Carmelite religious order that arrived in 1242AD, The Friars Aylesford Priory is now home to a skulk of Carmelite Friars who uphold and share their faith in the beautiful grounds here. When not serving the community outside, there are spiritual guidance opportunities, pilgrimages, and retreats offered within the grounds.
Mass is held at multiple times so if you wish to attend a service, you are likely to find one to suit.
As Christmas approaches, there is also a chance to catch some candlelit Carol singing.
The Art
There is a wide range of styles from various artists to be found within the walls and I always seem to find a detail I missed the first-time round.
Statues and carvings can be seen all around, some of the oldest pieces appearing subdued on aging door frames. Statuettes randomly appear on the side of buildings so don’t forget to look in the less obvious places.
The main garden is full of shrines, intended for mindfulness and prayer as you make your way to each stop. Each one is different, be sure to look closely.
Dining
If coffee and walnut cake or a nice cup of tea tickle your fancy, pop along to the 17th century thatched barn and take your pick from the café. Always fresh, I’ve never been disappointed by savouries or sweets.
Unbeknown to me, there is an option for afternoon tea on Wednesdays.
Alternatively, you could book yourself in for Sunday roast and have the (supposedly) best of British dining.
Accommodation
The site has an 80 bedroom guesthouse with easy access to London and the Euro tunnel terminal. Bed and breakfast means you won’t need to stray far for food as soon as your eyes open, either.
Other
The gift shop offers a great variety of associated paraphernalia, along with children’s toys and jewellery.
There is a pottery barn at the far end of the car park, where it is possible to book on to a course. Why not have a go and learn the craft yourself?
The Peace Garden, with its 300 translations of the word, is a curated area, designed as a sanctuary for all. It represents fire with bright coloured flowers, wind through swaying grasses, then earth and water with whites and blue hues, each element emerging as you move through.
Having mentioned Christmas once already, they also hold a Christmas Fayre.
Overall
The whole place offers a peaceful environment. Delightful gardens, enchanting chapels and entrancing artworks result in a unique menagerie of old and new. Somehow, the modernity enhances the ancient.
I appreciate that this is a rather brief overview of this wonderful location, but their website covers the details, whilst my pictures below show the beauty I see in it. Religious or not so religious, I recommend a visit if you are able to.
