Wenlock Priory

Wenlock Priory is located at Much Wenlock in Shropshire. Formally a Cluniac monastery it is now in ruins but a few building were saved and now private residences.

First founded in about 680 by Merewalh, King of Magonsaete as an Anglo-saxon Abbey. His daughter became the Abbotess and was later canonised. She died in 727. After the Norman Conquest the Abbey was taken over and became a Cluniac priory. It was 're-founded' in 1079 by Roger de Montgomery.

In the 14th century the priory was completely rebuilt, no expense was spared. A town grew up around the priory called Much Wenlock and it formed a warren of small intricate narrow streets. These were lined with timber framed buildings which can still be seen.

Within the town is the well of St Milburga of Wenlock which was said to have cured sight impairments and helped Victorian women find a suitor.

The dissolution took its toll, the church fell into ruin and the assets were sold off with the profits going to King Henry VIII.

Several buildings survived and became private residences including the Priors house. The church is in ruins and parts of it remain including the north and south transepts.