Introduction
Bushmead Priory contains an 18th-century garden site within the remains of the monastic gardens and fishponds of a medieval Augustinian priory. The present garden covers six hectares, and lies within a farming estate which was possibly as large as 50 hectares in the 18th century.
The Priory Church of Saint Mary, Bushmead, commonly called Bushmead Priory, was a monastic foundation for Augustinian Canons.
- Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts
Access contact details
Pre-booking is mandatory to visit Bushmead Priory.
You can book your advance ticket by contacting the Wrest Park reception team on 01525 860000 (Option 5) between 8:30am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday.
The site is open on the first Saturday in the month between May and August.
For more detailed visitor information visit the English Heritage website.
Directions
Located off B660, 2 miles East of Bolnhurst. West of St Neots. Train: St Neots 6 miles.
- History
The priory was founded around 1195 by William, Chaplain of Colmworth.
Period
18th Century (1701 to 1800)
- Features & Designations
Designations
The National Heritage List for England: Register of Parks and Gardens
- Reference: GD1562
- Grade: II
Features
- Refectory (featured building)
- Description: The complete refectory of an Augustinian priory, with a fine timber roof and notable fourteenth century wall paintings.
- Latest Date:
- Fishpond
- Key Information
Type
Garden
Purpose
Ornamental
Principal Building
Religious Ritual And Funerary
Period
18th Century (1701 to 1800)
Survival
Part: standing remains
Hectares
6
Open to the public
Yes
Civil Parish
Staploe