THE LAUREL AND THE LANTERN
A Reflective Journey Through Britain’s Poets Laureate

Step into an evening of poetry, reflection, history, and imagination at St Augustine’s Abbey, Chilworth.

From Wordsworth and Tennyson to Betjeman, Ted Hughes, Carol Ann Duffy, and Simon Armitage, this special event explores how Britain’s Poets Laureate have captured the spirit, struggles, beauty, and hopes of their age.

Set within the peaceful surroundings of the monastery’s Assisi Room, The Laurel and the Lantern offers a thoughtful and engaging journey through some of the nation’s greatest poetic voices - chroniclers of the soul of their generation.

Presented by Rt Rev Dom Paulinus Greenwood OSB, Dr Jo Russell, and Sheila Longman, the evening combines literary insight, reflection, and conversation in a unique monastic setting.

Friday 18 September 2026
7.30pm-9pm
Assisi Room
St Augustine’s Abbey, Chilworth

Advance booking essential — limited seats available.
Book via www.ticketsource.com (search “Chilworth Abbey”)

Quick book here: https://www.ticketsource.com/st-augustines-abbey-chilworth



Early Bird Offer until 4 September 2026:
£12 per person or £10 each for groups of 3

£15 thereafter. A small booking fee applies. Free car parking.

Join our waiting list if we are sold out.

Click here to find St Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth, Guildford, Surrey GU4 8QR.

All proceeds support the monastery.