The Adornes Estate and the English Convent in Bruges

Hidden gems in Bruges’ Saint Anne’s Quarter

What better way to discover the lesser-known charms of Bruges than strolling through the streets of the quiet and highly photogenic St. Anne’s Quarter, which was the hub of Bruges’ lace industry in the 19th century.
While the neighborhood is home to many places of interest, our trip will focus on 2 of its gems, particularly because of their historical ties to the British Isles.

The Adornes estate was founded in the 15th century by the Adornes family who came from Genoa in Italy. They built the Jerusalem Chapel, which was consecrated in 1429 and inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, a number of almshouses and a wealthy mansion. The estate is still family owned (17th generation) and is run by a foundation established by Count (Earl) and Countess Maximilien de Limburg Stirum.

We discover an authentic medieval estate in the heart of Bruges and step into the world of its most prominent merchant families. More specifically, we will be immersed in the life of Anselm Adornes, the family’s most famous descendant, learning about trade, diplomacy and devotion, the central features of his life, while not forgetting his intense relationships with the Scottish royal court.

Besides the Adornes Museum and Chapel, we will also have the opportunity to enjoy the elegant and homely atmosphere of the Scottish Lounge and the Earl and Countess’s private apartments.

After lunch in bistro ‘t Gezelleke’, referring to the name of Guido Gezelle, a famous Flemish priest/poet, we go to the English Convent.

The estate of the English monastery has been occupied almost continuously by the canons of Windesheim for almost 4 centuries. The convent (monastery) is a fully walled complex with a unique domed church and extensive 19th century landscaped garden. It is home to a community of sisters who, until recently, have been committed to the education of young women, more particularly by running a boarding school for English Catholic girls.

Afterwards, the participants are invited to enjoy the unique atmosphere and the warm ambiance of “Café Vlissinghe”, the oldest pub in Bruges (allegedly founded in 1519) and to look back on the day while enjoying a farewell drink (not included in the price) .

Lunch in bistro “ ’t Gezelleke” Carmerstraat, 15 8000 Brugge at 13.00. One course including 1 glass of wine/beer/soft drink plus coffee or tea. Vegetarians please notify at registration.

How to get there :

-by car: The Adornes Estate is situated in the  Saint Anna quarter where traffic is discouraged . Therefore it is hard to find a parking place. Moreover, parking in the centre of Bruges is payable between 09.00 and 20.00. The nearest underground parking is parking “Langestraat”:  https://www.visitbruges.be/en/parking-langestraat

Just outside the city centre, at the Kruispoort, you will find the Dampoortstraat situated at walking distance from the Estate ( +/- 10 m) . There you can park for free.

– by public transport: From the train station you have several possibilities. Take bus lines 6 and 16  to the “ Coupure” bus stop situated at about 6 minutes walking distance from the Estate. Or take lines 4 and 14 to the “ Gouden Handstraat “ bus stop also at walking distance ( +/- 6 min) from the Estate.

The organiser will arrange for more detailed information in the week preceding the outing. So if you have registered and paid for this event, you are invited to let the organiser know, preferably by e-mail.