Visit Castle Acre Priory, Finding Beauty in Ruins
William de Warenne, the 1st Earl of Surrey, established Castle Acre Priory in 1090. Warenne was given land by William the Conqueror for his continued support. Warenne believed establishing a monastery would earn him favor with God. He and his wife had visited the Cluny Abbey in France and were impressed by the beauty, they used the land given by William the Conqueror to establish the first Cluniac monastery in England. The monastery received grants from King Henry I and other nobility. It became quite wealthy and Royalty often stayed on the grounds. Castle Acre Priory housed 35-40 monks until the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VII in 1537.
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Today, Castle Acre Priory is one of the largest and best-preserved monasteries in England. The property is under the care of English Heritage for preservation. The Cluniac monks believed beauty to be a form of worship. The property remains in good condition. The decorative stonework on the remains of the West Front demonstrates their workmanship. The Priors Lodgings are in good condition and allow insight into the day-to-day life of the monks who resided there. I loved the two-story porch with wildflowers growing from the stonework. Be sure to explore the Cloister, Chapter House, and restored herb garden next to the visitor center.
Castle Acre Priory is set in England’s countryside near Swaffham and next to the River Nar. This is a beautiful day trip from Norfolk England. Stop in the village of Castle Acre for tea and see the Bailey Gate, also under the care of English Heritage. Take a walk along Peddars Way or Nar Valley Way to stretch your legs.
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