Newminster Abbey facts for kids
Newminster Abbey was an important Cistercian monastery located in Northumberland, in the north of England. A monastery is a place where monks live and pray. Today, the site is protected by law as a Grade II listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. This means it's a special historical place that needs to be preserved.
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What Was Newminster Abbey?
Newminster Abbey was a home for Cistercian monks. These monks followed strict rules and lived simple lives, focusing on prayer and work. The abbey was founded in 1137 by Ranulph de Merlay, who was the lord of Morpeth, and his wife, Juliana.
How the Abbey Started
The first leader, or abbot, of Newminster Abbey was Saint Robert of Newminster. He came from another famous Cistercian monastery called Fountains Abbey. Saint Robert was in charge from 1138 to 1159. Sadly, just one year after it was built, the abbey was attacked and burned by Scottish raiders. But the monks didn't give up! They rebuilt the abbey, and it was finished in 1180.
Life and Lands of the Abbey
Even though Newminster Abbey was located west of Morpeth, its lands stretched all the way to the Scottish border. The monks used these lands for farming and raising animals. Every summer, they would take their sheep to graze in pastures near the Scottish border.
The Abbey's Closure
Newminster Abbey closed down in 1537 during a time known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries. This was when King Henry VIII decided to close many monasteries across England. After the abbey closed, the Crown (the king's government) rented out the land to the Grey family. They used many of the abbey's stones to build their own homes.
Who Owned the Abbey Later?
In 1609, the Crown sold the abbey's land to Robert Brandling. The Brandling family then sold it again in 1709 to John Ord of Fenham. Over the centuries, the ownership changed hands several times.
Visiting the Abbey Today
Today, the site of Newminster Abbey is on private land. This means you cannot go directly onto the site. However, you can still see the remains of the abbey from a nearby hill. There is also a public footpath that runs along the west side of the site. The best way to reach this footpath is from Kirkhill, where you can park your car.
Famous People Buried Here
Important people were sometimes buried at Newminster Abbey. Here are some of the notable individuals who found their final resting place at the abbey:
- Ralph de Greystoke, 1st Baron Greystoke
- Ralph de Greystoke, 3rd Baron Greystoke
- Robert de Umfraville, Earl of Angus
- Robert de Umfraville and his wife
An Interesting Fact
The name "Abbey Well" for a popular water brand comes from Newminster Abbey. The water brand was created by a company called Waters & Robson.
