Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory
Christian·England·Private residence with public access to chapel and garden·12th century
Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory, also known as St John's Jerusalem, is a historic site in Kent, England, established in 1199 as a Commandry for the Knights Hospitaller. The property features a 13th-century chapel and a moated garden, with medieval sections predominantly constructed around 1234. It transitioned from its monastic role to private ownership, with parts of the property now managed by the National Trust and open to the public.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1199 as a Commandry of the Knights Hospitaller.
- ›Medieval sections of the property were constructed around 1234.
- ›The site includes a 13th-century chapel and a garden moated by the River Darent.
- ›It ceased to be used as a preceptory by 1388.
- ›The property was given to the nation in 1943 by Sir Stephen Tallents.
- ›Currently let by the National Trust as a private residence, with public access restricted to the chapel and garden.
Medieval
13th-Century Chapel, Moated Garden, River Darent, Artificial Island, Former Fishpond, Cedar of Lebanon
St John's Jerusalem, Sutton-At-Hone Preceptory
Abraham Hill, Edward Hasted, Sir Maurice Denys, Sir Stephen Tallents, John Radyngton, Robert Botell, John Weston
- Establishment As A Commandry of the Knights Hospitaller
- Procurement of Oak Trees From Tonbridge Forest By Henry Iii
- Cessation of Use As A Preceptory
- Establishment of An Orchard By Abraham Hill
- Edward Hasted's Residence and Subsequent Bankruptcy
- Donation To the Nation By Sir Stephen Tallents
- Dredging of the Darent River
About Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory
Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory, also known by the name St John's Jerusalem, is a significant historical property located in Sutton-at-Hone, Kent, England. Its origins trace back to 1199 when it was established as a Commandry for the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. The site is notable for its 13th-century chapel and a garden that is uniquely moated by the River Darent.
History and Development
The medieval sections of the property were largely constructed around 1234, a period marked by royal interest, as Henry III ordered the felling of oak trees from Tonbridge Forest for its development. By 1388, the property had evolved beyond its primary function as a preceptory. In later centuries, it became a site of horticultural interest when naturalist Abraham Hill established an orchard in 1670, introducing apple and pear varieties that contributed to the development of cider and perry, including the Kentish Pippin. The property also served as the home of the county historian of Kent, Edward Hasted, from 1755, though his extensive expenditures may have led to his bankruptcy and imprisonment.
Transition and Preservation
In 1943, Sir Stephen Tallents generously gifted the building to the nation. The property has since been recognized for its historical importance, holding Grade II* listed building status since 1952 and being scheduled as a site of national importance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Currently, the property is managed by the National Trust and is let as a private residence. While the main dwelling is private, the 13th-century chapel and the surrounding garden are accessible to the public, offering a glimpse into its long and varied history.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory established?
Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory was established in 1199. It was originally founded as a Commandry for the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem.
What are the main historical structures at Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory?
The property includes a 13th-century chapel and medieval sections of the building, with significant construction around 1234. It also features a moated garden.
What is the current status of Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory?
The property is now let from the National Trust as a private residence. Public access is limited to the chapel and the garden.
Who were some notable figures associated with Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory?
Notable figures include priors like John Radyngton, Robert Botell, and John Weston in the late medieval period. Later, naturalist Abraham Hill established an orchard there in 1670, and county historian Edward Hasted resided there from 1755.
Is the chapel and garden at Sutton-at-Hone Preceptory open to the public?
Yes, the chapel and garden are open to the public. However, the rest of the property is a private residence.
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