A Taste of History: The Quirky Teapot and Quarr Abbey

Nestled in the peaceful countryside near Ryde, The Quirky Teapot is more than just a charming café — it sits on land steeped in history. Our home, Staplehurst Grange, is believed to have once formed part of the estate of the nearby Quarr Abbey, a site with deep spiritual and agricultural roots on the Isle of Wight.

Quarr Abbey itself has a rich monastic history dating back to the 12th century. Originally a Cistercian monastery, it was dissolved during the reign of Henry VIII, like many other religious houses. Today’s Quarr Abbey was rebuilt in the early 20th century by Benedictine monks and remains an active place of worship, tranquility, and community life.

It’s thought that Staplehurst Grange once fell under the lands managed by the Abbey — perhaps used for farming, grazing, or as a grange for storing produce. While many records were lost to time, the name "Grange" hints at its agricultural past and connection to the Abbey’s self-sufficient estate.

Today, where monks once toiled the land, we now serve cakes and cream teas! But the connection to the Abbey still lingers in the peacefulness of our surroundings — the same countryside that has sustained locals and visitors for centuries.

Next time you pop in for a cuppa, take a moment to imagine the monks of Quarr Abbey walking these same fields… and enjoy a little slice of living history with your slice of cake.

Quarr Abbey, near Ryde, Isle of Wight