In 1539, the Abbey was surrendered to Henry VIII’s commissioners as part of the king’s programme to dissolve the monasteries. The Hyde Abbey monks were pensioned off, its treasures were destroyed or dispersed, and the buildings were reduced to rubble.
Today, all that remains of the Abbey above ground is the stone gateway, an arch that used to span the abbey millstream and the church built for the pilgrims and lay-brothers, now the nave and chancel of St Bartholomew’s Parish Church.
Yet what was lost to demolition is gradually being recovered through archaeology.
Edward Fennell introduces Hyde Abbey
Hyde900 is in the privileged position of having a number of prized sites for excavation on our doorstep.
Since 2016, we've undertaken over 40 test-pit excavations in local gardens which have added significantly to the knowledge and understanding of the Abbey complex.
As more evidence comes to light, the interpretation changes, new questions are raised, and the search continues!
Join Professor Martin Biddle as he explains Hyde Abbey's origin as New Minster.