Basingwerk Abbey

Tucked away in a corner of the Heritage Park in Greenfield lie the fragmented remains of the Cistercian house of Basingwerk Abbey. Only scant evidence of the original foundation c1132 (at first, a Savignac house) has been discovered at the site and much of the surviving ruins are dated to the 13th century.

Although the abbey church, one of the smallest Cistercian examples in Wales, does not survive to any great height, it is possible to make out the plan on the ground. A typical cruciform construction, with small chapels in the North and South transepts, and the claustral buildings assembled around the Cloister on the southern side of the Nave. The two fine arches of the extended Chapter House, and their supporting column, have survived remarkably well compared with the rest of the decaying monastic structure.

Following the Dissolution, part of the eastern range of Basingwerk Abbey was remodelled for use as farm buildings, and the remnants of an old barn can be found in the south-east corner of the site. As with most medieval monasteries, Basingwerk Abbey had an interesting and colourful history. During the late 13th century, Edward I used the abbey as his base while he was building Flint Castle (about 4 miles away), and granted the monks many privileges for their loyalty.

Over the years, it is believed that the monastic rule at Basingwerk Abbey eased considerably and towards the end of the 15th century it had such a reputation for hospitality that dinner often had to be served in two sittings. The Abbott during these times, Thomas Pennant, eventually resigned - following his marriage - but several years later his son Nicholas became the last Abbott of Basingwerk.

Even though this site is not the easiest place to find, the remains are well worth investigating. It is a delightfully peaceful location, and one where time stands still sufficiently long enough for the mind to conjure up images of this strangely insular medieval lifestyle.