Castle Acre Priory: A Hidden Gem in England

Tucked in the English countryside within the Norfolk region stands a magnificent priory with a huge 12th century wall defense still partially in tact. This Cluniac priory was dedicated to saints Paul, Peter, and Mary when it was founded in the year 1089 (believed to be that old) by the de Warenne family. William de Warenne was a Norman knight who fought with William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 - the most crucial battle in British history. Due to their success at the Battle of Hastings, William de Warenne was given a title and wealth for his loyalty to the king and made his land here in Norfolk. Castle Acre became his “headquarters.” In the 1080’s, de Warenne gathered a group of monks in nearby villages to create a monastery. It became a bustling part of England during its time.

Through many generations of the de Warenne family, each member made donations and contributions to the building. You can even see some features that are more “modern” and “newer” than other parts, which would have come later. This family gave the priory endowments to keep it afloat. It even contained the supposed arm of Saint Phillip. The priory received around 100,000 pounds a year by today’s money.

During the dissolution of the monarchy in 1537 (cough… Henry VIII… cough cough), the area began to shrink and become less important. It is believed that King Henry VIII seized the wealth of many priories to get money for his own gain, hence why the priory dissolved.

Castle Acre Priory housed about 30 monks. It is quite fascinating to see where the sanctuary would have been, the living quarters, the kitchen, stables, the brewhouse where they made mead, and even inventive bathrooms for their time. You can see it all and touch it, which is unlike many other priories in the Western world.