Extensive ruins of an early Cluniac priory in Norfolk.
I love Castle Acre, it's a small village in north Norfolk that can boast an idyllic rural location, a ruined castle, a gatehouse over a road and a ruined priory too!
Castle Acre Priory is a wonderful place to visit. It's tranquil setting at the end of the sleepy village of Castle Acre, is like discovering the sixpence in a piece of Christmas Pudding.
The first building here was probably founded by William de Warenne around 1090, in the early years of the Norman Conquest. The Cluniac order of monks came from Burgundy in France, and elements of the Priory here reflect the design of the motherhouse.
Cluniacs revelled in decoration, something which is still evident today in the ruins. with many examples of stone carving and even wall paintings.
One of the best preserved areas of the ruins is the Prior's Lodgings. This two storey building shows the warm and cosy nature of Cluniac life, at least for some of the monks. Huge fireplaces show that it wasn't all austerity and discomfort, being a monk here.
It's easy to get a good feel for what the building was like in it's hay day; many of the accommodation buildings survive from the cloisters. English Heritage who now manage the site, provide an excellent audio tour - actually two, one aimed at adults, the other for children - which is excellent for bringing it all to life in your imagination.
It's a great place for children to explore and our children love to play hide and seek among the ruins.
Near the entrance, you'll find a recreated herb garden. In the days when monks lived here, growing herbs was an important responsibility, They provided many of the medicinal and culinary needs of the inhabitants. It's a lovely spot to potter around.
For anyone who's read the Brother Cadfael novels of Ellis Peters, the monastery herb garden will have a special significance.
