Exeter & Buckfast Gathering
When: 9-11 October 2026
Where: Exeter Cathedral and Buckfast Abbey
Overview
In the beautiful county of Devon, our Autumn National Gathering 2026, will give an opportunity to visit the beautiful and world-famous Exeter cathedral, built between the 11th and 14th centuries, and fascinating Buckfast Abbey, with its active Benedictine monastery near the small town of Buckfastleigh.
The Gathering will begin in Exeter Cathedral at lunchtime on Friday 9 October, with an opportunity to explore the site with experienced guides, looking at the very early misericords, its astronomical clock, its minstrels’ gallery, its magnificent Bishop’s throne, and the longest uninterrupted medieval stone vaulted ceiling in the world. There will also be the unique opportunity to visit the brand-new Treasures exhibition housing 1000 years of Cathedral history. Following the tours learn more and hear the Grand Organ, before refreshments and Choral Evensong. After Evensong, there will be a drinks reception for all those attending and an opportunity to meet members of Exeter Choir and Cathedral clergy.
On Saturday morning, visit Buckfast Abbey via coach, enjoy refreshments, followed by a talk on the Abbey and its music before exploring its beautiful gardens. Attend Choral Mass at lunchtime before enjoying a finger buffet in the Conference Centre. The afternoon will include a tour of the Abbey and a recital and demonstration of the first organ built in the United Kingdom by the renowned Italian organ builder Fratelli Ruffatti followed by tea and a return to Exeter in time for Choral Evensong. After Evensong, walk across to the nearby Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel for a Gala Dinner in the Seymore Suite, with special guest speakers.
Sunday 11 October will begin with Choral Eucharist in the Cathedral Nave, followed by refreshments and a Sandwich lunch in the Chapter House. There will then be time to explore the area around the Cathedral before attending a final Choral Evensong and heading home.
