Downside Abbey, Stratton-on-the-Fosse

History

The Downside Community started at the monastery of Saint Gregory in Douai, Flanders then under Spanish authority. In 1606 a group of monks who had entered Spanish monasteries after the suppression of monastic life in England established a house and school near the English Channel. They chose their location so they could easily cross the Channel to serve the Catholic community in secret. When arrested they faced the death penalty. Six of the monks were beatified in 1929 and two canonized in 1970.
The community returned to England after the French Revolution when Douai was captured by the French. Upon their arrival, they settled at Acton Burnell, Shropshire before establishing their present community in 1814.

Food & beverage

Meals are not supplied. Guests are to be self-catering and clean up upon leaving the guesthouse.

Other facilities

Linens are supplied, towels are not. There is a kitchen, living room with a small library of religious books and other literature. The dining room is next to the kitchen. There is central heating and carpeting throughout the house. Shops are a few minutes away.