Confession time and here’s what I’ve got: I’m an enormous Hamilton fan and the entire purpose of our visit was to visit the grave of John Laurens. Mepkin Abbey was about an hour out of our way, and it was worth every minute. The grounds of Mepkin Abbey are stunning, and one can easily get lured into a lengthy stroll. The riverfront was a nice area with several benches. Perfect for sitting with a good book or in quiet meditation. As for the Laurens Cemetery... it is located at the back corner of the property, across a wooden footbridge over a creek bed. I did not see any signs directing to it, though I’ve seen some online. Perhaps I missed them, or maybe they were removed. I was glad to find the cemetery gate was not locked and one could still step inside. Simply put: if you’re a Hamilton fan, history buff, or in search of a little solitude, Mepkin Abbey is worth your detour.

My time at the monastery this week was grand!!! I did not audibly pray the entire stay. No worship music (except an hour the final day before 7p). No sounds of nature to soothe me into sleep when I was restless. I wanted to get all my stuff "purely" sKraight from the source this week. ANNNDDD I liked it! I look forward to doing it again, even annually, except... I want to do it without a Spiritual Director involved next time. It was a great experience. However,

Peacefulness. We visited on a Sunday and it was quiet with only a couple of other visitors. We walked the gardens and labyrinth enjoying the quiet solitude. It's a lovely get away.

I never get tired of going out to this serene place. One of the most beautiful places to see in the lowcountry and off the beaten path for sure. Lots of landscape to have picnic or take photos. I absolutely reccomend taking the walking tour over to the chapel and sitting in on service. It was ver interesting to watch. You also get lots of great info on the tour. Drive back towards the river to see the tree sculptures of Christ...they are breathtaking. There's a labyrinth you can walk and a wonderful gift shop with unique pieces. It's all free except the walking tour and in think that's $5.

This place is SO relaxing. The gardens are nice and refreshing. The maze is a nice added touch. The gift shop is very reasonably priced and goes to a good cause. I always enjoy our visits here.

If you ever want to stay in town but feel like you are traveling to another time go to Mepkin Abbey. Not only are the views beautiful you can set up a picnic at sunset and have some wine and relax while enjoying the scenery. At 6pm they always ring the bell and you see the monks walk around the abbey. This location while it’s marked as a historical sight it doesn’t disappoint. You can see old broken trees, a grave yard, wood carvings the monks have done of the nativity set and Jesus. There is a library and a church in the Abbey. You’ll also find a welcome center however they close people to 6pm- so go early if you’d like to see the welcome center and the church. The perfect time to go is sunset. From the photos, the view and the peace that surrounds you it’s priceless! Absolutely a must in Charleston. Best of all, it’s free to go inside! It’s up

Really enjoyed my visit to Mepkin Abbey. They have a tour or you can explore on your own, or better, do both. Learned a lot on the tour I would not have fully appreciated exploring on my own. Glad we were able to attend morning vespers. I am not Catholic, but that does not matter.

The setting is absolutely beautiful and so peaceful. We attended for the Creche Festival and all volunteers were very friendly and helpful. I would love to see them display the indoor nativity sets in a larger building with more space to give people time to reflect on the art of the pieces. Some seating in the middle of a larger space would also be nice not only for reflection but for the older attendees. Truly a lovely place to visit.

This is such a calm, serene place, where you can get away from the traffic and the crowd. The oaks are grand and marvelous. The gardens are beautiful.

Mepkin Abbey is such a beautiful place to visit. We enjoyed the market, the gift shops and exploring the grounds. Definitely worth the drive!

Beauty, simplicity, and peace. These are the gifts of Mepkin. My favorite place to be on retreat.

It is definitely a spiritual experience, in this place you can breathe so much tranquility and so much peace. 🙏

Visiting MA has been in my list for 7+ years. We had guests visiting for Thanksgiving and thought this was the perfect time to head up. Checked them out online to get the necessary info (hours, location, etc.). Planned out our day, drive 1+ hours to get there to read a sign on the door stating “Sorry No Tours Today”. WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT! We still walked in to inquire and it was confirmed. We inquired as to why it’s not posted online and Angel (worker behind counter) said that wasn’t her job. No apologies, no customer service, nothing. She later explained they gave volunteers off that week because of holiday. So they did plan ahead for volunteers, just didn’t care to inform public. I appreciate volunteers and their service. They deserve a break. MA needs to keep future guests informed about lack of tours. Sadly, I just cannot return because of the lack of care and concern Angel had. I left without even buying the Christmas presents I wanted to purchase for family members, plus the mushrooms I heard were amazing. 💔 This review is not to give them a bad score. But rather to inform future visitors to CALL AHEAD!

Really enjoyed our walk through the gardens, seeing the memorial, and finding John Lauren's grave site. The store is also really neat filled with jams, delicious breads, and other items for purchase. We will be back once they open the monastery again for tours.

Tranquility, ambiance and whimsical from the inside out. The walk and sit down at the park, a moment of beautiful reflection becoming an observer of humanity. A visual silence and wishing well of peace, this safe haven is a comfort zone. No Social media but bust out the IPhones for picture perfect scenery. From agriculture to bible studies, the great book of wisdom rests at your feet here! Remember, learn in silence.

So beautiful and peaceful! We went a little after 5 on a Thursday and didn’t see anyone else there (except a man who kind of shooed us out at like 5:50). Worth going out of the way to get here (especially because it’s free!) Be aware that the gift shop closes at 4, while the rest of the area open to the public closes at 6.

Beautiful peaceful place to chill and think or walk around.

Beautiful and serene place to visit. Love their soaps and mushrooms. Visits are frequent and the Creche Festival this year too. Tickets only needed for the Creche Festival.