Visitor Guidelines

Visiting glenstal

Monasteries are never without guests, Saint Benedict reminds us, and we are always happy to welcome visitors to Glenstal. You are most welcome, especially to visit the Church for a moment of quiet prayer or to walk our stunning grounds. Though open to the public, Glenstal Abbey is not a public park. The grounds are shared between the monastery, resident guests, our school and a working farm along with those who visit.

We wish to maintain a sacred and peaceful environment for those who live and work here, as well as for you who visit. Thus we give the following guidelines for your visit so that the space may be welcoming, safe, and a respectful place for all…

General Access and Safety

All avenue users; walkers, runners, cyclists, drivers should be alert to the safety of other users.
When walking the grounds, please follow signage and don’t stray onto private paths/areas.
Entry to buildings such as the school is strictly prohibited without prior approval.
Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash, and please clean-up after them!
Slopes and inclines might be challenging for some, hence it may be best to check with us in advance of your visit.
Pitches and tennis courts are private, and picnics, camping and ball games are not permitted.
No fishing or swimming is allowed in the lakes.
Please do not pick flowers and fruit in the gardens.

Entry and parking

The main gate is open from before Morning Prayer (6.30am) until after Compline (9pm).
Please drive slowly (30km/h) on the avenues.
The main car park is to the left approaching the castle archway. Coach bays are marked at the castle archway, and car parking for church-users is through the archway, at the Church. Car parking is not permitted on the avenue.

Photography and Recording

Any photography or recording for public or commercial publication, broadcast or streaming requires prior permission.
Photographs and videos should not be taken of others who are on-site, particularly students of the school.
Wedding and similar event photography is not facilitated.
The use of drones is not permitted.

more information

More information may be obtained from Monastery Reception which is open Monday to Saturday from 9am-5pm, and Sunday from 11am-4pm. Queries may also be directed to monks@glenstal.com or by telephoning 061 621000.