Hinton Priory

Hinton Priory is a medieval Carthusian monastery where fragments of the chapter house, library, dovecote, and refectory still stand today. These ruins reveal the layout and construction methods typical of monastic buildings from that era.

The priory was established in 1227 and served as a center for Carthusian monastic life in England for over three centuries. It came to an end in 1539 when King Henry VIII dissolved all monasteries in the country.

The monks who lived here were Carthusians, an order known for their solitary lifestyle and preference for silence over communal activities. The layout of their separate cells and work spaces still shows how withdrawn and individual their daily routines were.

The site is a protected monument with free access to the ruins, though you should stay on marked pathways. There are no facilities on site, so wear sturdy footwear and allow time to explore the grounds at a slow pace.

The grounds around the ruins contain earthworks that form subtle outlines of where the main cloister and surrounding buildings once stood. Walking across these raised and sunken areas helps visitors picture the full extent of the original monastic complex.

Location: Hinton Charterhouse

Inception: 1227

GPS coordinates: 51.33110,-2.31989

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:22