Merevale
| Merevale | |
| Warwickshire | |
|---|---|
 The Gatehouse to Merevale estate in Merevale Lane. | |
| Location | |
| Grid reference: | SP2997 |
| Location: | 52°34’36"N, 1°34’22"W |
| Data | |
| Population: | 181 (2011[1]) |
| Postcode: | CV9 |
| Dialling code: | 01827 |
| Local Government | |
| Council: | North Warwickshire |
| Parliamentary constituency: |
North Warwickshire |
Merevale is a village and parish in the Hemlingford hundred of Warwickshire. Located about one and a half miles west of Atherstone, it is the site of a mediæval Cistercian Abbey (founded in 1148) and Merevale Hall (built in 1840 and home to the Dugdale family).
History
Merevale Abbey
- Main article: Merevale Hall
An abbey was built in Merevale in 1148 by Robert de Ferrers, 2nd Earl of Derby. It was a relatively small abbey with only around 10 monks. The abbey was dissolved in October 1538, during the reign of Henry VIII and fell into ruin, but traces of it remain to the present day. One of the most significant parts to have survived is the gate chapel, now used as the parish church. The church is significant for its Cistercian stained glass, including its Jesse window (one of the most important in the British Isles), and for being the only Cistercian gate chapel to be open for regular weekly services throughout the year. William de Ferrers, 5th Earl of Derby is buried here.
Merevale Hall
- Main article: Merevale Hall
Designed by Edward Blore, Merevale Hall was completed in 1840 and has been the home of the descendants of Sir William Dugdale since this time. Dugdale was a strong royalist supporter of King Charles I during the Civil War, and was appointed as his 'Garter Principal King of Arms'. Many of his artefacts, including ceremonial clothes, can be seen at the hall.
References
Outside links
- Merevale and Blyth Estates
- History of Merevale Abbey at British History Online
- Buildings at Risk Register: Merevale+Abbey