Lewes Priory

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Lewes Priory was a Cluniac priory established in the valley of the river Ouse in the eleventh century, between 1078 and 1082. It was founded by William de Warenne and his wife Gundrada, the rulers of Sussex, who had come to England with William the Conqueror. The priory became wealthy and at the time of its demolition under the dissolution of the monasteries in November 1537, it owned 20,000 acres of land in Sussex alone. However, there were only 24 monks at this time, reduced from approximately 100 during the period from 1100-1300. The priory played a part in the Battle of Lewes when the army of King Henry III occupied it.

A substantial protected ruin still stands within parkland. The ruins remain a popular tourist attraction, but are fenced off (bar occasional tours) to the public for preservation.

[edit] References

• Tom Kitch. Lewes Priory - History. Retrieved on 2007-01-02.