Ampleforth Abbey Visitor and Retreat Centre
Project Overview
Ampleforth Abbey
Set in the heart of North Yorkshire, Ampleforth Abbey is a Roman Catholic Benedictine monastery founded in 1802 by monks fleeing the French Revolution. Steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside, the Abbey continues to be a place of reflection, learning, and welcome.
Alban Roe House
Following a major refurbishment led by the well-known and respected Architect Keith Hardcastle, ALP Architecture, Alban Roe House now offers exceptional facilities for visitors, retreat guests, and school groups. The building features a dedicated Retreat Centre, an engaging interactive Visitor Centre, and a welcoming 80-seat Tea Room.
The renovation has transformed the accommodation, providing 60 beds suitable for school groups, alongside modern bathroom facilities and improved accessibility throughout. Carefully designed social spaces support both quiet reflection and group activities.
Throughout the project, great care has been taken to preserve the character and charm of this much-loved Victorian building, seamlessly blending historic features with contemporary comfort.
Alban Roe House at Ampleforth Abbey was awarded Best Completed Historic Building Refurbishment 2024 (Yorkshire), celebrating a project that masterfully blends heritage, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design.
Products Provided
Working very closely with the design team, archivist, information and records manager, and facilities teams, WeSpace sourced, delivered, and installed bespoke interactive educational furniture stations, signage and way finding, digitally printed wallpaper and artwork, activity room furniture, dormitory beds and furnishings, and window blinds throughout—creating engaging, functional, and visually inspiring spaces for learning and living.
