Whispers of monks echo through the trees here at Lesnes Abbey Woods. This isn’t just a woodland. It is a place steeped in history and mystery. Today we’ll journey back in time. We’ll uncover the story of Lesnes Abbey and its fascinating past.
Lesnes Abbey was founded in 1178 by Richard de Luci. He was Chief Justiciar of England. Some say it was an act of penance. This was for his involvement in the murder of Thomas Becket. Becket was the Archbishop of Canterbury.
De Luci retired to Lesnes Abbey in 1179. He died just three months later. He was buried in the chapter house. The ‘Lesnes Missal’ was made for the Abbey between 1200 and 1220. It may have been for him or a family member.
The abbey’s early days weren’t always peaceful. In 1381, during the Peasants’ Revolt, locals stormed Lesnes Abbey. They forced the abbot to swear allegiance to their cause. The abbot was an important landlord. He was responsible for draining the marshland. This was a constant financial strain.
Lesnes Abbey never grew large. In 1525, Cardinal Wolsey closed it. This was during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries. It was one of the first to close. The Abbey had fewer than seven inmates.
After its closure, Lesnes Abbey fell into ruin. The land became farmland. Some stones were used to build Hall Place in nearby Bexley.
The site was excavated around 1910. In 1930, the London County Council bought the ruins. They opened it as a park in 1931. Today, the London Borough of Bexley owns the site.
As you wander through Lesnes Abbey Woods, imagine the lives of the monks who once lived here. Picture the abbey in its full glory. Think about the historical events that unfolded within these grounds.
Notice the layout of the ruins. The church was on the south side of the cloisters. This is unusual. It was likely due to the sloping site and marshy ground.
Don’t miss the mulberry tree. King James I planted it. He hoped to start an English silk industry. He didn’t know that silk moths eat white mulberry leaves. He was sold a black mulberry instead.
Lesnes Abbey Woods is also a Local Nature Reserve. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is known for its early Tertiary fossils.
Today, Lesnes Abbey is a place of tranquility and reflection. It allows us to connect with the past. It also provides a haven for nature. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and history that surrounds you. Let the stories of Lesnes Abbey Woods linger in your mind. They echo long after you leave this special place.