Pontefract Hermitage, Medieval hermitage in Wakefield, England
The hermitage contains two sandstone chambers at different levels, connected by a 63-step spiral staircase leading to an underground well.
The current structure dates from 1386 when Robert de Laythorpe granted Brother Adam, the residing hermit, this retreat and surrounding land for life.
Peter of Pomfret, an early hermit from the 13th century, became a character in Shakespeare's play King John after his execution for predicting royal downfall.
The upper chamber, known as the Oratory, measures 14 feet by 8 feet and includes an altar, fireplace, bench, stool, and bed shelf.
Workers discovered this Grade I listed building in October 1854 while laying a new sewer system beneath Pontefract's streets.
Location: Wakefield
GPS coordinates: 53.69060,-1.30993
Latest update: March 4, 2025 16:33
Pontefract Castle
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Church of All Saints
860 m
Pontefract Museum
207 m
St. Giles' Church, Pontefract
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Pontefract Town Hall
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Pontefract Library
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Old Town Hall
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Pontefract Market Hall
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Micklegate Methodist Church, Pontefract
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The Malt Shovel Public House
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The Horse Vaults Public House
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The Green Dragon Public House
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Holy Family R.C Church
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Crescent Cinema, Pontrefact
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Queen's Hotel
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Barclays Bank
123 m
Red Lion Hotel
153 m
Market Cross And Attached Pump
136 m
Court House
355 m
Pontefract Museum building
210 m
Plague Stone At Junction With Sandy Gate Lane
3 km
Dandy Mill
1.6 km
Mile Post Approximately 110 Metres To North Of Junction With Moor Lane
2 km
Mile Post Approximately 80 Metres To South Of Colliery Entrance
1.1 km
Stump Cross
2.1 km
Milepost At Se 446 190
2.9 km
Guide Post At Junction With Hardwick Lane
2.7 km
Pontefract Chord Viaduct
1.4 kmReviews
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