As you're walking along Whitson Street, keep your eyes open for a tall stone tower with a clock on it. That's the distinctive tower of St James’ Priory popping up above the greenery and nearby buildings. Look for the wrought-iron fence and an inviting patch of green in front, like a small garden oasis amid the urban hustle.
Now, ready to dive into some history? Here we go!
Welcome to St James' Priory, a real treasure trove of history dating back to 1129. Imagine this: it was founded by Robert, Earl of Gloucester, who happened to be the illegitimate son of Henry I. Talk about a colorful family history!
St James' Priory managed to survive the famous Dissolution of the Monasteries, thanks to a nifty agreement made in 1374. The nave you see today is from way back in 1129, with the tower added around the same time. So, despite Henry VIII doing his best to dismantle England's monasteries, this beauty stood its ground.
Now, let’s fast forward through some drama. In 1604, there was a national scare that the beloved St James' Fair might spread the plague, so Londoners were banned from attending. However, the fair continued to thrive, transforming over the centuries, turning into a dynamic event with everything from theatre and sports to bizarre curiosities like 'Toby the salient Pig.' Even Shakespeare's troupe might have graced the fair with their performances!
In the 17th century, this fair was so famous and so significant that merchant ships docked in Bristol were often attacked by Turkish pirates. It wasn't just a local affair; it had an international allure.
After feeling some neglect over the years and making its way onto the Historic England Buildings at Risk Register, St James' Priory underwent a grand restoration in 2011, reviving its ancient charm. As of 2014, it's no longer at risk and continues to serve the community as an active church within the Catholic Diocese of Clifton.
So, take a moment here to absorb the rich layers of history and the resilient spirit of this medieval gem. Enjoy your time at St James' Priory!
Fascinated by the archives, st james's fair or the st james priory project? Let's chat about it
