Community Groups
Better Places (Be Buckfastleigh)
Better Places (Be Buckfastleigh) organizes community events in Buckfastleigh, including a weekly social supermarket offering surplus food and a free playgroup for young children at St. Luke’s Church Hall. They provide a welcoming space for residents to connect and support each other.
- Contact: Becci Eriksson
- Email: hello@bebuckfastleigh.co.uk
Buckfastleigh Action for Nature Group
Buckfastleigh Action for Nature Group supports local wildlife and encourages environmental awareness through community activities like No Mow May and the Open Wildlife Gardens event. They also run the Community Pollinator Project to help urban pollinators thrive with support from experts and local residents.
- Contact: Annie Morris
- Email: buckfastleigh.nature@gmail.com
Buckfastleigh Bowls Club
Buckfastleigh Bowls Club hosts a range of social and community events throughout the year, including quiz nights, bingo, and special celebrations like the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. The club is welcoming to all, with disabled access, free parking, and a licensed bar.
- Contact: Tom Bowden
- Phone: 07577-219962
- Website: http://www.buckfastleighbowlsclub.co.uk
Buckfastleigh Community News
Buckfastleigh Community News shares local updates, stories, and events through its website and a printed newsletter, helping residents stay informed and connected.
- Contact: Chris Doidge
- Phone: 01364 612345
- Email: news@bflnews.org.uk
- Website: https://buckfastleighnews.org.uk
Buckfastleigh Cricket Club
Buckfastleigh Cricket Club is active in the Devon League, welcoming players of all ages and abilities as well as volunteers for scoring, umpiring, and ground maintenance. Enjoy friendly matches and a welcoming atmosphere at their picturesque ground.
- Contact: Martin Parkes
- Phone: 07886 118528
- Website: https://buckfastleighcc.uk
Buckfastleigh Library
Buckfastleigh Library is a vibrant community hub offering a wide range of activities for all ages, including free song sessions for toddlers, board game clubs, and creative crafts during school holidays. The library also supports local projects and provides access to books, digital resources, and community services in a welcoming environment.
- Phone: 01364-642638
- Website: https://discover.librariesunlimited.org.uk/-/buckfastleigh-library#/
Buckfastleigh Mothers' Union
Buckfastleigh Mothers’ Union is a friendly community group hosting regular meetings with engaging talks on topics like family life, nature, and cultural experiences. Visitors are always welcome to join these informative and social gatherings at St Luke’s Church.
- Contact: Janet Jones
- Phone: 01364 643627
Buckfastleigh Open Wildlife Gardens
Buckfastleigh Open Wildlife Gardens is a free annual event showcasing gardens that support local wildlife and pollinators. Participants can choose how their gardens are featured, from open access to street viewing, welcoming all who love nature.
- Website: http://www.bit.ly/41lyHVo
Buckfastleigh Primary School
Buckfastleigh Primary School is a vibrant local school committed to nurturing children's learning, creativity, and confidence through an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Contact: Headteacher
- Phone: 01364 643304
- Email: office@buckfastleigh.devon.sch.uk
Buckfastleigh Repair Cafe
Buckfastleigh Repair Café is a community initiative held every third Saturday where volunteers help fix household items to reduce waste and support sustainability. New volunteers are welcome to assist with repairs, publicity, fundraising, and welcoming visitors.
Buckfastleigh Royal British Legion
Buckfastleigh Royal British Legion is a local branch of the national charity supporting veterans, serving members of the armed forces, and their families. It fosters remembrance and community through events such as services at the town’s war memorial and social gatherings.
- Contact: Janet Jones
Buckfastleigh Tennis Club
Buckfastleigh Tennis Club is a welcoming local club that offers opportunities for all ages and abilities to enjoy social and competitive tennis in a friendly, inclusive setting.
- Phone: 07780 703770
Buckfastleigh Town Council
Buckfastleigh Town Council is the official governing body for the town, supporting local initiatives, community funding, and providing public information on services, planning, and events.
- Phone: 01364 642576
- Email: ranger@buckfastleigh.gov.uk
- Website: https://buckfastleigh.gov.uk/
Buckfastleigh Town Lottery
Buckfastleigh Town Lottery is a local nonprofit lottery that raises funds for community projects, events, and good causes in the Buckfastleigh area. Participants have a weekly chance to win cash prizes while supporting the town.
- Contact: J Searle & Son
- Email: shop@seales.tv
Buckfastleigh Warm Spaces
Buckfastleigh Warm Spaces is a community-led initiative offering free warm and welcoming places across town during winter. It brings together local venues like the Wool Hub, Valiant Soldier, MIC, and St Luke’s Church to provide hot drinks and friendly company.
- Contact: Jill Elliott
- Email: richardandjill@copperfields.eclipse.co.uk
Buckfastleigh Women's Institute
Buckfastleigh Women’s Institute is a vibrant community group that organizes a variety of talks, social outings, and competitions throughout the year. They welcome new members warmly and meet regularly at St Luke’s Church or local venues to foster friendship and involvement in local and national events.
- Contact: Ann Tapper
- Phone: 07884 221312
- Email: buckfastleigh@devonwi.org.uk
Buckfastleigh Youth Club
Buckfastleigh Youth Club is a registered charity providing a safe and supportive environment for young people in the Buckfastleigh area. It offers a variety of activities aimed at personal development, social engagement, and community involvement.
- Phone: 01364 642180
- Email: jackieberry1@yahoo.co.uk
Christian Community Church
Christian Community Church is a welcoming faith community founded in 1922, dedicated to renewal of religious life through communal worship and healing presence. Services are open to all, with Sunday Communion services at 10am and guest accommodation available for visitors.
- Contact: Sabine
- Phone: 01364-644272
- Email: sabine.christian2003@gmail.com
- Website: http://www.thechristiancommunity.co.uk/Devon
Collati Singers
Collati Singers is a vocal ensemble known for performing unaccompanied sacred choral music, including Renaissance anthems and motets alongside modern compositions. They regularly perform at Buckfast Abbey and are directed by Trefor Farrow.
- Contact: Trefor Farrow
- Website: http://www.buckfast.org.uk/events/anthem-and-motets
Conversation Works
The Buckfastleigh Memory Café, run by Conversation Works, offers a welcoming space for people living with memory problems or dementia and their companions. Held regularly in a vintage railway carriage, the café combines relaxed conversation, games, and refreshments with memorable steam train journeys through the Devon countryside. Events include guest visits, partnerships with other memory cafés, and seasonal celebrations. No booking required — just come along and enjoy the ride.
- Contact: Kathrine Bailey
- Phone: 07899 993134
- Email: kathrine@conversationworks.co.uk
- Website: https://dmcc.org.uk/buckfastleigh/
Dean Prior Church
Dean Prior Church is a small parish community that raises essential funds through friendly local events such as coffee mornings, soup and pudding lunches, and the popular Dean Prior 100 Club. These gatherings bring residents together to enjoy homemade food, support the church, and maintain its presence in the village.
- Contact: Lynda Grieveson
- Email: lyndagrieveson@hotmail.com
Devon Communities Together
Devon Communities Together provides expert advice and support for communities across Devon, including free energy advice to help residents stay warm and manage their bills during winter.
- Contact: Anderson Jones
- Phone: 01392 248919
- Email: anderson.jones@devoncommunities.org.uk
- Website: https://www.devoncommunities.org.uk/projects/energy-outreach-project
Devon Wildlife Trust
Devon Wildlife Trust works to protect wildlife and natural habitats across Devon, with activities ranging from conservation projects to public engagement and education.
- Phone: 01392 279244
- Email: contactus@devonwildlifetrust.org
- Website: https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org
Dragon Sanctuary
The Dragon Sanctuary in Buckfastleigh is a welcoming community space hosting a variety of musical and storytelling events, including Indian devotional chant evenings, Taizé singing, and true storytelling circles. Open to all, these events offer a peaceful and uplifting atmosphere with no prior experience necessary.
- Website: www.dragonsanctuary.co.uk
Flowstrong
Flowstrong offers Pilates-based fitness classes in Buckfastleigh and Ashburton, designed to improve strength, flexibility, and posture. Led by Lucie in a welcoming environment, the sessions are open to all levels and promote both physical and mental well-being.
- Contact: Lucie
- Phone: 07854 228236
- Email: flowstrong@outlook.com
Friends of Buckfastleigh Library
Friends of Buckfastleigh Library is a local support group dedicated to promoting and protecting library services. They encourage public engagement with events, book borrowing, and digital access while also advocating for strong staffing and funding from local government.
- Contact: Janet Jones
- Phone: 01364 643638
Friends of St Mary's Catholic Primary School
Friends of St Mary's is a parent-led group that raises funds and organizes community events to support St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, including quiz nights and summer fayres.
- Contact: Rachel Bastyan
- Email: rachel_bastyan@hotmail.co.uk
Heart and Soul Funerals
Heart and Soul Funerals hosts monthly “Dying Conversations” at the MIC Centre — open, informal sessions where people can explore end-of-life topics like bereavement, grief, and preparing for death. These drop-in gatherings provide a respectful space to listen, share, and ask questions.
- Contact: Simon Smith
- Phone: 01364 643522
- Email: hello@heartandsoulfunerals.co.uk
History Society Buckfastleigh
The History Society Buckfastleigh is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich local history of the area through talks, events, and community projects. They actively collect and document stories, photographs, and memories from residents, especially those with military service, to ensure these important histories are not forgotten.
- Email: historysocietyvs@gmail.com
Holne Village Hall Committee
Holne Village Hall Committee organizes community events such as plant sales and fundraising activities to support the upkeep of Holne’s village hall.
- Phone: 01364-631344
- Email: holnevillagehall@gmail.com
Jacquie Felix Mitchell
Jacquie Felix Mitchell runs a friendly all-ability French Conversation Club in Buckfastleigh, providing a relaxed and sociable space for practising spoken French over coffee and croissants.
- Contact: Jacquie Felix Mitchell
- Email: jacquiefelix@gmail.com
Kate Perry
Kate Perry offers seasonal wellness retreats combining yoga, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques such as meditation and Reiki, in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.
- Contact: Kate Perry
- Phone: 07816 355903
Methodist Church
Buckfastleigh Methodist Church offers regular Sunday worship services in the chapel near the abbey and a welcoming space for personal reflection. The community enjoys weekly coffee mornings at the Valiant Soldier, fostering fellowship and friendship.
- Contact: Andrew Parsons (Steward)
- Phone: 07834-468880
Moor Imagination Centre
The Moor Imagination Centre (MIC) is a vibrant community hub in Buckfastleigh, offering a diverse range of events, workshops, and activities that foster creativity, well-being, and community engagement.
- Email: moorimaginationcollective@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.moorimagination.org
- Instagram: @moorimaginationcollective
Moorland Community Caring
Moorland Community Caring is a Buckfastleigh-based charity supporting people over 50 through regular social events, volunteer support, and community outreach. Their popular "Moor Social" gatherings foster connection, well-being, and companionship.
- Contact: Rachel Johnson
- Phone: 07794-599206
- Email: info@moorlandcommunitycaring.org.uk
- Website: https://www.moorlandcommunitycaring.org.uk/
National Committee of the World Day of Prayer
The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who organize a common day of prayer each year. The UK committee supports and coordinates these services nationally, including events in Buckfastleigh.
- Contact: Janet Jones
Network of Wellbeing
The Network of Wellbeing supports community connection and sustainability through projects like the Share Shed — a mobile Library of Things — and local events such as WoolFest. Their initiatives promote sharing, skill-building, and reducing waste, making everyday resources accessible to all.
- Contact: Mirella Ferraz
- Email: hello@shareshed.org.uk
- Website: https://www.shareshed.org.uk
Orchard Millennium Green
Orchard Millennium Green is a cherished community green space in Buckfastleigh that hosts seasonal events like WoolFest, Fun Day, and Apple Day, and welcomes volunteers and local involvement throughout the year.
- Phone: 01364-642486
- Email: rcprior96@gmail.com
Patchwork Quilt Challenge
Patchwork Quilt Challenge is a friendly community group that creates beautiful quilts from reclaimed fabrics, which are donated to local charities supporting children and refugees. Meetings are held regularly at St Luke’s in Buckfastleigh, where all skill levels are welcome to join in the crafting and companionship.
- Phone: 01364-642486
Purl and a Pint
Purl and a Pint is a friendly knitting and crochet group that meets twice a month at The King’s Arms in Buckfastleigh. Whether you're a beginner or experienced crafter, members are always happy to help you get started and enjoy creative social evenings.
- Contact: Dawn
- Phone: 07990-332816
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army in Buckfastleigh supports the local community through faith-based services, charitable outreach, and seasonal events. They often coordinate with other groups to provide help to vulnerable residents and promote social inclusion.
- Phone: 01626 369053
- Email: Newton.Abbot@salvationarmy.org.uk
- Website: https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/newton-abbot
Scoriton & Buckfastleigh Twinning Association
Scoriton & Buckfastleigh Twinning Association promotes friendship between Buckfastleigh and Fontaine-Henry in France through cultural exchanges, community events, and hospitality opportunities for visiting guests.
- Phone: 01364 643728
- Email: scoritonbucktwinning@gmail.com
Skylarker Well-being Project
Skylarker Well-being Project offers inclusive classes in movement, mindfulness, and self-care, helping people in Buckfastleigh build resilience, reduce stress, and enhance well-being through community-based sessions.
- Contact: Pip Jones
- Phone: 07946 615808
- Email: pipjones6@gmail.com
- Website: http://www.skylarker.co.uk
St Benedict's Catholic Church
St Benedict’s Catholic Church in Buckfastleigh is a warm and welcoming community led by Parish Priest Fr Francis Straw from Buckfast Abbey, offering regular Mass, seasonal services, and various opportunities for worship and fellowship. The church also supports local needs through initiatives like the Buckfastleigh Foodbank and offers a quiet activity area for children during services.
- Contact: Fr Francis Straw
- Phone: 01364-645526
- Email: parish@buckfast.org.uk
- Website: http://www.stlukeschurchbuckfastleigh.org.uk
St Luke’s Church
St Luke’s Church is a welcoming parish offering a variety of worship services, community support initiatives, and events that cater to all residents of Buckfastleigh. The church actively supports those in need through its foodbank and outreach programs, fostering a spirit of care and inclusion.
- Contact: Revd Jane Smith
- Phone: 01364 643120
- Email: vicar@stlukes.org.uk
- Website: http://www.stlukeschurchbuckfastleigh.org.uk
St Mary's Catholic Primary School
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School is a local faith-based school serving the Buckfastleigh area. It provides a nurturing educational environment grounded in Christian values, fostering academic growth and personal development.
- Phone: 01364-642389
Valiant Mummers
The Valiant Mummers are a local community theatre group known for performing traditional mummers' plays and mystery dramas, including seasonal productions like Noah and the Flood. New members are always welcome.
- Contact: Rod Denley-Jones
- Phone: 07794 574572
- Email: rod.denleyjones1@gmail.com
Valiant Soldier Heritage Centre
The Valiant Soldier Heritage Centre in Buckfastleigh is a community-run museum and visitor centre showcasing local history, with a focus on Buckfastleigh's past, including special exhibitions and engaging events. It offers educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and hosts a variety of social gatherings throughout the year.
- Phone: 01364-644522
- Email: info@valiantsoldier.org.uk
- Website: http://valiantsoldier.org.uk
Wellswood Yoga
Wellswood Yoga offers friendly, all-ability yoga sessions at St Luke’s Church, Buckfastleigh, open to drop-ins and newcomers. They also provide private tuition and workplace classes, promoting wellbeing for all ages.
- Contact: Kevin
- Phone: 07540 751745
- Email: wellswoodyoga@gmail.com
- Website: http://www.wellswoodyoga.com
Woolly Nanas
Woolly Nanas, based at The Wool Hub in Buckfastleigh, offers a wide range of woolcraft workshops, regular drop-in sessions, and a vibrant community space for all ages and abilities. They provide activities such as knitting, crochet, spinning, and natural dyeing, fostering creativity and connection throughout the year.
- Email: woollynanas@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.thewoolhub.org