Bushmead Priory, Staploe, Bedfordshire
Bushmead Priory was founded around 1195 by Hugh de Beauchamp. At this time it followed no recognised monastic rule but changed in 1215 when the Augustinian rule was introduced. The only surviving intact building of the precinct is the refectory. It was built in 1250 then altered and decorated with a series of wall paintings in 1310. Further alterations were carried out in 1500. After the dissolution of the priory in 1536, the refectory continued in use as a private dwelling. This was added to during the 1620s and in 1762. An illustration dating to 1730 shows the cloisters before they were demolished in the later 18th century. The church and other buildings are present as a series of earthworks. The earthworks also include a row of fishponds. This site is now in the care of English Heritage (2011). Read detailed archaeological description.
