A statement from Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) who currently own the site has been released:

The governing body of Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) has taken the difficult decision to approve the proposed sale of the Missenden Abbey site in response to the ongoing financial pressures faced by all universities.

BNU is not alone in having to make tough choices in light of these significant challenges, and our strategic focus is on providing the best possible student experience; generating research that positively impacts our communities; and developing the talent within our organisation.

Despite the best efforts of everyone at both Missenden Abbey and the University, we are unable to retain and manage the site without significant investment that we are sadly unable to afford. As such, we are planning to close our doors for the last time on Sunday 30 November 2025.

Marketing for the potential sale of the site has begun and the University is open to selling the Abbey as a going concern.

The continued smooth running of the Abbey remains a key priority for BNU and the team working at the Abbey, so until any potential sale, it’s ‘business as usual’ at Missenden Abbey until the end of November. We have written to everyone who has booked a room or event at the venue both prior to and after 30 November.