Chemin Neuf Community at the Sclerder Abbey

The Chemin Neuf Community runs a working monastery at Sclerder Abbey, just outside Looe on Cornwall's south coast. It's a proper functioning spiritual community rather than a museum, so what you're visiting is genuine - people actually live and work here. The abbey itself is modest, nothing like the grand ecclesiastical ruins you might find elsewhere, but there's something quite real about that.

You can visit the grounds and often attend services if you're interested in that side of things. The setting matters here - it's quiet, tucked away from the coastal bustle that defines much of Looe. Walking the grounds takes less than an hour unless you sit about contemplating, which plenty of people do. It's the sort of place that appeals to people seeking genuine spiritual experience or those simply after a bit of peace away from seaside crowds.

Access and timings aren't fixed in stone (no pun intended) - it's community-run, so ringing ahead makes sense. Admission is typically free, though donations are welcome and expected. The location works well if you're based at Tencreek or Killigarth Manor, both within a mile or so, giving you a quieter counterpoint to typical beach holidays. It's not a mainstream attraction by any stretch, but that's precisely why it matters. You won't find tour groups here. If you want an hour of genuine Cornish spirituality rather than postcards and pasties, this is worth the detour from Looe.