Hickling Priory facts for kids

Hickling Priory was an old religious house in Norfolk, England. It was home to a group of monks called Augustinian canons. These canons were like monks but followed a special rule that allowed them to be more involved in the local community.

The Priory's Beginning

Hickling Priory was started in 1185. A man named Theobald, whose grandfather was Theobald de Valognes, founded it. Theobald de Valognes was a powerful lord from Parham.

Growing and Getting Rich

By the year 1291, Hickling Priory had become quite important. It owned land in 32 different areas, called parishes, across Norfolk. The priory also held a big three-day fair every year. This fair was called the All Hallows fair and took place in Hacheston, Suffolk. This area was near where the founder's family lived.

Tough Times for the Priory

The priory faced a huge challenge when the terrible Plague arrived. This sickness swept through England and killed many people.

The Plague's Impact

Sadly, almost all the canons at Hickling Priory died from the Plague. Only two of them survived. The priory never truly got back to its strong state after this disaster.

Problems and Warnings

After the Plague, the priory struggled. Church leaders, called bishops, often visited Hickling. They found that the buildings were falling apart. They also noticed that the canons were not following their rules as strictly as they should. These visits showed the priory was having a hard time in its final years.

The End of the Priory

In the 1500s, big changes happened in England. King Henry VIII decided to take control of many religious houses. This period is known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

Accepting the King's Rule

On June 4, 1534, Hickling Priory officially agreed that the King was the head of the church. This was a very important step.

How Much It Was Worth

In 1535, a survey called the Valor Ecclesiasticus was done. It found that Hickling Priory was worth about £100. Its most valuable possession was a nearby estate called the manor of Hickling.

The Priory Closes

Finally, in 1536, Hickling Priory was officially closed down. Its lands and wealth were taken by the King.

What Remains Today

Today, you can still see parts of the old priory. Ruined sections of the church and other buildings remain. They are located on a private farm called Priory Farm in Hickling. These ruins are a reminder of a long-ago time.