London Charterhouse
The London Charterhouse is a historic complex in Clerkenwell, London, originally founded as a Carthusian priory in 1371 on a Black Death burial site. After its dissolution in 1537, it was transformed into a Tudor mansion before being acquired by Thomas Sutton in 1611. Sutton established it as a school and an almshouse, which continues to operate today, providing residence for older people.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1371 as a Carthusian priory.
- ›Originally established on land used as a burial ground for Black Death victims.
- ›Transformed into a Tudor mansion after the priory's dissolution in 1537.
- ›Became a hospital (almshouse) and school in 1611 under Thomas Sutton.
- ›The almshouse continues to provide accommodation for older residents.
- ›The associated school relocated to Godalming, Surrey, in 1872.
Tudor, Medieval
Almshouse, Museum, Charterhouse Square, Chapel, Remains of Monastic Buildings, Tudor Mansion Architecture
- the House of the Salutation of the Mother of God
- Howard House
Walter Manny, Thomas More, John Houghton, Sir Edward North, Thomas Howard, 4th Duke of Norfolk, Thomas Sutton, Henry Levett, Rev. William Haig Brown
- Founded As A Carthusian Priory In 1371.
- Dissolution of the Monasteries In 1537.
- Rebuilt As A Tudor Mansion From 1545.
- Acquired By Thomas Sutton and Established As An Almshouse and School In 1611.
- Relocation of Charterhouse School In 1872.
- Severely Damaged During the Blitz In 1941.
- Restoration of Buildings Between 1950 and 1959.
- Opened To the Public In 2017.
About London Charterhouse
The London Charterhouse is a significant historic complex situated in Clerkenwell, London, with origins tracing back to the 14th century. It was initially established in 1371 as a Carthusian priory, named 'The House of the Salutation of the Mother of God,' on land that had served as a mass burial site for victims of the Black Death. Following the priory's dissolution during the English Reformation in 1537, the site underwent transformation into a grand Tudor mansion. In 1611, the property was purchased by Thomas Sutton, who endowed it as a charitable institution, establishing a school for boys and an almshouse for elderly men, known as Brothers.
History and Significance
The monastic period left substantial architectural fragments, but the majority of the current structures date from the Tudor era. Sir Edward North, who bought the site in 1545, demolished the church and constructed the Great Hall and Great Chamber, turning the complex into a luxurious residence. During the occupancy of Thomas Howard, 4th Duke of Norfolk, the house was known as Howard House, and it later hosted King James I. The foundation of Thomas Sutton's Hospital in 1611 marked a new chapter, intended to provide care for eighty men and education for forty boys. The almshouse, which has evolved to accept women since 2017, continues its charitable mission today, while the associated Charterhouse School relocated to Surrey in 1872.
Architectural and Operational Aspects
While retaining elements from its monastic past, the London Charterhouse primarily conveys the character of a large 16th-century mansion. The complex suffered damage during the Blitz in 1941 but was subsequently restored between 1950 and 1959, revealing and embellishing medieval and 16th- and 17th-century fabric. In 2017, in partnership with the Museum of London, the Charterhouse opened its doors to the public, offering a museum that narrates its history from the Black Death to the present day, a learning program for school groups, and access to the landscaped Charterhouse Square. Visitors can also attend chapel services, and pre-booked guided tours are available.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the London Charterhouse founded?
The London Charterhouse was founded in 1371 by Carthusian monks. It was established on land that had previously served as a burial ground for victims of the Black Death.
What was the London Charterhouse before it became an almshouse and school?
Before becoming an almshouse and school, the site was a Carthusian priory. Following the priory's dissolution in 1537, it was converted into a grand Tudor mansion.
Who established the almshouse and school at the London Charterhouse?
The almshouse and school were established by Thomas Sutton, a wealthy businessman, who acquired the property in 1611. He endowed the site to provide a home for eighty male pensioners and to educate forty boys.
Is the London Charterhouse still operational today?
Yes, the London Charterhouse continues to function as an almshouse for over 40 older residents, known as Brothers, and since 2017, women have also been accepted. The site also features a museum and is open for guided tours.
What happened to the Charterhouse School?
The Charterhouse School, which was part of the foundation established by Thomas Sutton, developed into a well-regarded public school. In 1872, the school relocated to new buildings in Godalming, Surrey.
Can the public visit the London Charterhouse?
Yes, the London Charterhouse opened to the public in 2017. Visitors can explore a museum detailing its history, a landscaped square, and attend chapel services. Pre-booked guided tours are available.
Related Monasteries
St. Mary Graces Abbey
St. Mary Graces Abbey, also known as Eastminster or New Abbey, was a Cistercian monastery founded by King Edward III in 1350. Situated just outside the Roman London Wall, it received endowments from royal courtiers and played a role in the local landscape, with one manor even named Towerhill due to its patronage. The abbey was dissolved in 1538 and its site later became home to the Royal Mint.
Hitchin Priory
Hitchin Priory, a Carmelite friary founded in 1317, was closed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the reign of Henry VIII. While the original priory was largely dismantled and its site used as a quarry, parts of it were incorporated into the current hotel building, which was constructed around 1700 and later rebuilt in 1770-71. The complex has been a Grade I listed building since 1951 and now operates as a hotel.
Eastminster Abbey
Eastminster Abbey, also known as New Abbey or St Mary Graces, was a Cistercian monastery established by King Edward III in 1350. Situated on Tower Hill in London, it was endowed by royal patrons and courtiers, with its primary function being the perpetual singing of masses. The abbey was dissolved in 1538, and its site later became home to the Royal Mint before its sale for diplomatic use.