St Giles medieval Hospital, Remains

St Giles medieval Hospital is a ruined facility that once housed and cared for the sick and poor during medieval times. The remaining chapel walls are constructed from flint rubble mixed with Roman brick and still stand to the height of the original roof line.

Founded in 1164 by Henry II, the hospital initially served those afflicted with leprosy. Over time it shifted focus to become a general institution caring for the poor and elderly, reflecting changing medical and social attitudes.

The ruins tell the story of how medieval communities cared for their sick and vulnerable members through dedicated facilities. Standing in this place offers a glimpse into the social structures that supported people who had nowhere else to turn.

The site sits on Spital Road and is accessible for visitors interested in exploring the medieval ruins at their own pace. As a protected monument, visitors should approach the remains respectfully and stay at a safe distance from the walls.

Current plans are underway to develop medicinal herb gardens surrounding the ruins to connect visitors with historical healing practices. These preservation efforts aim to turn the site into a place where people can explore and understand how medieval medicine actually worked.