Creake Abbey, Norfolk

The site of Creake Abbey, was originally occupied by an almshouse for the poor, and was founded by the Augustinians as a priory in the 12th century.

The site was promoted from Hospital to Priory and then, in 1231, to Abbey. Henry III made a number of grants to Creake including gifts of parish churches of Hapton and Wreningham, Gateley and St. Martin at Quarles and later in 1365 of St. Andrew, Great Ringstead.

In 1483, a fire swept through the abbey, damaging the church and several of the other buildings, such that it was beyond the resources of the convent to restore it. Richard III however gave the abbey £46 13s.4d towards the rebuilding. Robert Walsingham, appointed abbot in 1491, began extensive rebuilding of the quire and presbytery. By 1503 the work was progressing well. However, in 1506 an outbreak of the 'sweating sickness' wiped out the monastic community. The abbey site and estate was given to Lady Margaret Beaufort in 1507, and ended up in the ownership of Christ's College, Cambridge.

A few sections of the church walls still stand, and demonstrate their traditional Norfolk flintwork. There are some remaining carved details in the window arches and doorways but little else survives apart from foundations.

Creake Abbey’s Courtyard Shops and Farmer's Market were launched in the grounds in 2003. Shops include home décor and antiques, cushions and soft furnishings home accessories, painted furniture, objects d’art, children’s clothing and Provencal good ranging from honey and oils to tablecloths and ceramics. This is open from Tuesday to Sunday during the summer.

Opening Times

Any reasonable time.

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Ticket Prices

Admission is free.

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Disabled Facilities

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More Information

Telephone: 0870 333 1181

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