From Franciscan friary to Benedictine abbey
History and architecture of Chilworth Abbey
Discover the Franciscan origins, Benedictine life and Pevsner-recorded architecture of St Augustine’s Abbey, Chilworth in Surrey.
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The short answer
Built in 1890–92 as a Franciscan friary, the warm Ewhurst sandstone church and cloister became home to the Benedictine community now at Chilworth in 2011.
Who funded the original buildings?
Mary Anne Alliott paid for the entire original building, designed by F. A. Walters in a simple Late Gothic Revival style.
What does the Surrey Pevsner guide record?
The 2022 revised Surrey guide describes the church, cloister, warm Ewhurst sandstone, flint chequerboard gables, high altar, side altars and stained glass.
What is the Abbey today?
It is a living Roman Catholic Benedictine monastery where prayer, work, study and hospitality continue every day.