The British Province of Carmelite Friars

Also known simply at "The Friars" is one of the ancient houses of the Carmelite Order. Founded in 1242 the house passed from Carmelite hands at the Reformation in 1538. It was purchased back by the Order in 1949 when on the vigil of All Saints Mass was celebrated once again and, in the words of the first prior of the restored community, life returned! Many of the medieval buildings remain and a new open-air church has been built on the site of the medieval chapel.

The Friars is a place of welcome for people of all faiths and none. The two main public ministries are that of a pilgrimage and retreat centre. Throughout the summer months in particular many thousands of people come to Aylesford either as a part of organised groups or simply because it is known as a holy place. As well as pilgrimage and retreat ministry members of the community are involved in other kinds of service - one member of the community is chaplain to the local prison and others are often involved in helping out the local parishes and giving talks. For many years the community have given priority to helping foster ecumenical dialogue between the Christian churches.

Quite a number of people make Aylesford their normal place of worship. It is the noviciate house of the British province where new candidates will normally spend their first year of Carmelite formation. Large gatherings of the British Province normally take place at Aylesford which also houses the province library.

Aylesford Priory has its own website at: http://www.thefriars.org.uk

Carmelite Vocations

Aylesford Priory

Shrine of Saint Jude

Lay Carmel