Finding the remains of this priory isn’t easy. I knew it was supposed to be under the car park of Sainsbury’s SavaCentre in Merton, but I’d never seen any signs to it. Over the years, I vowed I’d go there and find it. The first time I attempted this, I had to ask a gardener in the front of the shopping centre where I might find it, and he directed me through the ground floor of the multi-storey car park and to the other side. ‘You go down under the road,’ he said. So, off I went, and yes I found it, but it wasn’t open. I could see it was a proper centre, which I don’t think it was in the beginning. That Sunday I returned.
The Museum of London was involved with the archeological dig, though there had been digs in the past. However, I was told that Sainsbury’s wanted to flatten the whole lot for their car park! The only part visible is remains of the Chapter House, but from the plan above, you can see that it was quite extensive.
Certainly, the building under the road is now well looked after and the information boards well put together explaining the history and life of the priory. The space in the middle doubles up as an exhibition space. When I was there, local artists were showing their paintings. I believe there are events put on as well. Not only is there information and ruins of the prior here but also the link with the Wandle River, William Morris, lost railways of the area and a display about Liberty’s of London, who had a textile workshop at Merton Abbey Mills just around the corner.
There is a wonderful website here with the history, videos and so much more. Merton Priory was famous in its time. Thomas Becket was student here, and Walter de Merton, was was probably educated here, became Administrator, and from where we get Merton College, Oxford!
I could get very carried away here as I took photo after photo. All my desires in one place were rather overwhelming! People sometimes ask, ‘Who is the one person you wish you could meet?’ For me, it would be William Morris. You might have guessed that as he crops up a lot in my blog posts!
Coming out of the Chapter House, there is a path leading to Merton Abbey Mills. I’d been so close to the ruins for so long, but no decent signage had made it difficult to locate. I went mad and bought virtually every book there for sale! I adore the place and feel it should have far more exposure, so please spread the word. I shall go back again sometime. A physic garden is being planned just outside – the wheelbarrows are there already. That should be lovely. Entrance to the building is free, but there is a donation plate and a visitors’ book to write your comments in.
This area is very close to my heart. I have walked the Wandle River, I visit Merton Abbey Mills and Merton Hall Park quite a lot. There is always something new to discover, and finally finding Merton Abbey Priory is the icing on the cake.
My London+ 