|  Cartmel
Priory [St. Mary and St. Michael]
Can be found in Cartmel
in the southern area of the Lakes and close to Grange-over-Sands.
The Priory dates back to the 12th Century and is one
the finest ecclesiastical buildings to be found in the
north of England and stands proud in the middle of the
village.
William Marshal founded the Priory for
the Black Canons of St. Augustine round the time of
1188 - 1190 with the first Canons arriving from Wiltshire
[Bradenstoke]. William Marshal would later become Earl
of Pembroke. During the "Dissolution" which
was the closing down of the monasteries which was ordered
by the King Henry Vlll in 1536 in which four Canons
and ten husbandmen were hanged here. They were hanged
for trying to prevent the King's Commissioners from
taking the corn from the Priory's barns with lead also
being stripped from the roofs.
 George
Preston eighty years later began to restore the Priory
which was in a poor state of repair. Lowther Family
and the Cavendishes with Earl of Burlington [Lord George
Cavendish] and 7th Duke of Devonshire [William grandson
of Earl of Burlington] also played a part in the history
of the Priory.
Within the priory look out for the memorial
which shows Frederick Cavendish who was the son of the
7th Duke of Devonshire who lived closed to Cartmel.
You will find two oak chairs close to the sanctuary
which the 7th Duke of Devonshire gave. Look out for
the brass Chandelier in which candles are still used
to light the Chandelier. The Chandelier was given to
the church back in 1734.
 In
the Piper Choir you will discover one of the oldest
area of the priory. The original stone roof which can
be seen beyond the archway. The Reverend William Taylor
grave can be found here in the churchyard who once taught
William Wordsworth and the headmaster at Hawkshead Grammar
School.
To learn more about the history and the
features within the church take one of their guided
tours on Wednesdays [see below]. The Prior is also used
for concerts and you will find books and gifts for sale.
It is advisable to
contact the museum prior to your visit if there is something
specific you wish to see or any alterations have been
made to the Opening times and the attraction itself.
Disclaimer
Further information and details on opening
times, costs and facilities please contact or
visit their website.
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+44 [0] 15395 36261 |
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