Picture this. You stand before Cellarer’s Chequer a relic of Barnwell Priory. This unassuming building whispers tales of medieval Cambridge. It was once the heart of the priory’s bustling economy.
The Cellarer’s Chequer wasn’t just any building. It was the business hub of Barnwell Priory. The Cellarer a crucial figure second only to the Abbot managed the priory’s finances and supplies. He oversaw everything from costings to weekly kitchen expenses. Think of him as a medieval chief financial officer. This Chequer the building where he conducted his business was ideally located near the kitchen parlour and refectory. This ensured the Cellarer could easily monitor operations. It also served as the priory’s trading post. Deals with suppliers were struck right here.
Barnwell Priory itself has a rich history. Founded in 1092 near Cambridge Castle it was later relocated to its present site in 1112. The Priory church of St Andrew-the-Less wasn’t completed until 1190. This shows the time and effort poured into this religious complex. The priory thrived for centuries. It had close ties to the Midsummer Fair. This fair granted a charter by King John in 1211 ensured the priory’s prosperity until 1506. Even prominent monarchs like Henry III and Edward I are said to have visited the Abbey.
The Priory underwent several renovations in the 13th century. Sadly it fell victim to Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1538. Thomas Cromwell ordered its destruction. Much of the priory was subsequently quarried its stones reused for Corpus Christi College Chapel.
But Cellarer’s Chequer survived. A testament to its sturdy construction it stands as one of the few original buildings remaining. Built from Barnack stone with a tiled roof it’s an excellent example of Early English architecture. Its 13th-century doorway windows and fireplace are still intact. Inside a stone vaulted ceiling supported by a central pillar hints at its past grandeur. Fragments of carved masonry coffins and lids add to the building’s mysterious charm. It’s a Grade II* listed building owned and preserved by Cambridge City Council.
So next time you’re in Cambridge take a moment to visit Cellarer’s Chequer. Marvel at its enduring presence. Let its weathered stones transport you back to a time of bustling markets monastic life and medieval commerce. It’s a small building with a huge story.