St. Augustine’s Priory: A Historical Haven in the Heart of Kent
Welcome to St. Augustine’s Priory, one of the most idyllic locations in Kent. Founded in 1253, dissolved in 1535, and restored in 1906, this distinguished medieval priory is rich in history. Originally home to the Black Canons of St. Augustine’s Order, it served as a hostel for pilgrims journeying to Canterbury and later became a center for smugglers, most notably the Aldington Gang. Today, it retains an ancient tradition of hospitality to the Archdeacon of Canterbury, who is privileged to stay at the priory “two nights and a day, but nothing more.”
About Bilsington Priory
The history and meet the team
MEET THE
Team
Welcome to Bilsington Manor House, where every afternoon tea is a celebration of tradition, charm, and community. At the heart of our exquisite tea service is a dedicated team that brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to every event.
Ready to Book your Afternoon Tea
Libby
Bilsington born and bred, Libby, with her late mother Mary Webb, opened the old priory as a wedding venue in 1997.
Over the years she has masterminded the expansion of the estate as a venue for a hosting a myriad of events from car rallies to the mayor’s garden party. She brings a natural charm and contagious laughter to any event she hosts.
With the 2020 COVID pandemic and the temporary cessation of weddings, she took the business in new directions delivering afternoon teas. With life returning to normal, demand for afternoon teas continued to rise, and they are now a core part of the estate portfolio.
Zena
Another locally born and bred member of the Priory team, Zena joined Libby in an admin role in 1998. An integral cog in the business wheel, she has been financial director for almost 20 years.
She once made an off-the cuff comment about her wish to be a baker and run a tea shop. “Be careful what you wish for” was Libby’s comment at the time, and now Zena is a mainstay of the afternoon tea service and is at home behind an apron as she is behind a laptop.
Bilsington Priory Story so far!
The site here at Bilsington Priory has been used since before the Doomsday Book was written.
But most notably for the creation of the Last Priory to be built for the Order of the Black Canons of St Augustine’s.
1253
So, in 1253 by charter approved and witnessed by Henry III and by the grant of John Mansell, Lord Chief Justice of England a small monastery/community for canons regular (not Monks!) was founded. With Henry III and John Mansell present at its consecration. This house was to be free and unincumbered and answerable to only the king!
1535
We believe that during the life of the priory it had 27 Priors, the first William in 1253 and the last John Tenterden (or Moyle) appointed in 1528 who surrender the Priory on February 28th in 1535 to Henry VIII via the Lesser Monasteries act.
The common seal of the Priory is affixed to the acknowledgement of supremacy held at the public records office.
Bilsington Priory is mentioned in historical record as providing a hospital, library (with the last book created and removed at the reformation now in the Bodleian Library in Oxford), working and preaching in local communities, providing alms for the poor and a fair once a year at midsummer.
To this day still provides the Arch Deacon of Canterbury Cathedral the right to say two nights and a day and no more for their works across Romney Marsh.
The Priory still owns the Seal and Charters, now housed securely at Canterbury Cathedral, with Signatures of various secular owners that include Richard III, Henry VI, Edward IV Henry VI, Henry VIII, Thomas Cranmer Archbishop of Canterbury (1533-55), Edward VI and Mary I. Charting its history through these turbulent times.
Once Monastic life ended, most of the buildings were raised to the ground with only what we now understand to be the guest wing convert to a high-status home and part of the original priory building complex converted to a barn. As the building becomes more run down its starts be used as a hideout for smuggling gangs. In particular the Aldington Gang a band of smugglars roaming the marshes and shores of Kent with the Priory being used as a hideaway and look out post for its clear view across the marsh. During this period many ghost stories about the priory were propagated to discourage any visitors from coming and snooping around.
The story of our past, changed our future…
On the upper floors of the priory are signatures and graffiti, carved into the medieval roof timbers, by members of the Durham Light Infantry dating from 1940. Research has confirmed that 14BN, DLI, was indeed, stationed at the priory throughout WW2. Referred to as a ‘Dunkirk Battalion’, 14BN DLI was an amalgamation of different units following the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from France in 1940.
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Book a Table
Experience the timeless elegance of a traditional afternoon tea at Bilsington Priory. Indulge in a selection of fine teas, delicious finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delightful pastries, all served in the enchanting setting of our historic venue.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a leisurely afternoon, Bilsington Priory offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable tea experience. Our beautiful gardens and elegant interiors provide the ideal atmosphere for relaxing and savoring every moment.
Don’t miss out on this quintessentially British tradition. Reserve your table today and join us for an afternoon of charm, elegance, and delicious treats.
Click the link to book your afternoon tea now. We look forward to welcoming you to Bilsington Priory!