St. Hugh's Charterhouse, Parkminster

St. Hugh's Charterhouse in Cowfold is a Gothic Revival monastery where individual monk cells are connected through a covered walkway spanning over half a mile. This layout includes a church, communal buildings, and surrounding grounds that make up the complete religious complex.

The Carthusians returned to England in 1873 and founded this monastery following the destruction of all religious houses by Henry VIII during the Reformation. This re-establishment represented the return of this monastic order to England after an absence of several centuries.

The monks here follow a way of life centered on silence and prayer that shapes their daily routines. Visitors can observe how individual cells and shared spaces work together to support this particular monastic tradition.

The complex sits in southeastern England and is visible from a distance thanks to a tall church spire that marks the location. Visitors should know that monks live and work here, so visits are restricted and quiet behavior is expected.

The community brings together monks from different countries who conduct their religious services in two languages. This mix of international members and the use of Latin and English in prayer creates a rare cultural blend at this location.

Location: Cowfold

Inception: 1873

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://parkminster.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 50.97301,-0.28274

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41