Return to St Benet’s Abbey
By Michael Martin On July 27, 2026 · Return to St Benet’s Abbey
St Benet’s Abbey stands alone on the Norfolk Broads, set in isolated marshland at the point where the River Ant meets the River Bure. A monastery has occupied the site since monks were first granted land and property here in the eleventh century. St Benet’s holds a unique place in English history. It is the only monastery that King Henry VIII did not close during the Dissolution. Instead, the site was bequeathed to the Bishop of Norwich, who remains its Abbot to this day.
A living tradition: the summer service at St Benet’s
Each year, the Bishop of Norwich, currently the 72nd holder of that office, leads an open air service among the ruins on the last Sunday of July. The custom dates back to 1939. True to the Abbey’s riverside setting, the Bishop arrives by traditional Wherry, sailing up the River Bure with an entourage, rather than by road.
The Broadland landscape in which the ruins of St Benet’s Abbey nestle
The service is held on the spot where the Abbey’s high altar once stood, marked today by a wooden cross and the focal point of worship at the site. It is planned and organised each year by the Community of St Benet’s, under the care of the rector of the Benefice of St Benedict.
Bishop Graham conducts his service on a windswept Broadland landscape
How to reach St Benet’s Abbey for the service
The Sunday service can be reached by several routes, so there is a suitable option whatever your starting point:
By road
Most visitors now drive. It is an easy thirty minute journey from the coast or from Norwich, and St Benet’s Abbey has reasonable vehicle access. Turn off the main road through Ludham by the Dog Inn and follow the single farm track to the official car park. Extra fields are opened specially on service days, and stewards direct disabled visitors up onto the site to avoid a long walk over rough ground.
By bicycle
Cycling is a good option. Designated bike spaces are provided in the car park.
On foot
Many of the congregation walk from nearby villages, or take a more challenging riverside walk from further afield. A permissive footpath runs from Ludham Bridge and Johnson Street, taking around twenty five minutes.
By bus
Check Traveline East Anglia for current routes and times to the area.
By train
Take the train to Wroxham, then a taxi for the final leg of the journey.
By river, the best route
The best way to arrive is said to be by water, just as the Bishop does. Hire a day boat, kayak or canoe from Wroxham or Horning and make your way downstream to this historic site.
Visiting St Benet’s Abbey beyond the summer service
Away from its one annual service, St Benet’s Abbey is open all year round as a free attraction for visitors and locals alike, during daylight hours. The surrounding landscape is a draw for photographers, birdwatchers, hikers, dog walkers and artists.
Cattle graze parts of the site at certain times. Please read the warning notices displayed around the Abbey and take care when livestock are present.
Frequently asked questions about St Benet’s Abbey
Can you visit St Benet’s Abbey all year round?
Yes. The site is open during daylight hours throughout the year, and visitors are welcome at any reasonable time.
How often are church services held at St Benet’s Abbey?
Only one church service is held at St Benet’s Abbey each year. This traditional open air service takes place among the historic ruins beside the River Bure.
When is the service held at St Benet’s Abbey?
The service is held on the last Sunday of July, or occasionally the first Sunday of August, led by the Bishop of Norwich in his role as Abbot of St Benet’s.
Where is the service held at St Benet’s Abbey?
At the site of the former high altar, beneath the wooden cross, at St Benet’s Abbey near Ludham, Norfolk.
Are there facilities around the Abbey?
No. There are no toilets or other facilities on site, and little shelter from the weather beyond the standing remains of the gatehouse.
Is the site suitable for family visits?
Yes. The open space is ideal for exploring, picnicking, exercise and hobbies such as photography or kite flying.
Plan your visit
Visit St Benet’s Abbey with Barn & Beach Holidays and Ferry Marina Day Cruises, and experience one of the Norfolk Broads’ most atmospheric historic sites for yourself.
July 2026.
