Chicksands Priory

Chicksands Priory is a Grade I listed country house in Bedfordshire featuring medieval ecclesiastical architecture and formal gardens on a substantial estate. The building displays stonework from multiple periods and stands within landscaped parkland.

The priory was founded in 1101 as a Benedictine nunnery and transferred to the Gilbertine Order in 1147 before eventually becoming a private residence. The site took on military and scientific significance during the 20th century.

The building served as a strategic intelligence center during World War II, intercepting German coded signals for decryption at Bletchley Park.

Access to the grounds is available through organized tours, which cover the architectural features and layout of the property. It is advisable to check in advance whether visits are possible on your chosen day, as they may be limited.

From 1950 to 1995, the grounds housed the FLR-9 direction finding antenna, locally known as the Elephant Cage. This distinctive installation was one of the largest radio detection systems in Europe at that time.

Location: Campton and Chicksands

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 52.04070,-0.36607

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:46