A Brief History of Buckden Towers

Buckden Towers was a manor owned by the Bishop of Lincoln in 1086. Over time, the Bishops developed it into an ecclesiastical palace, attracted by its location next to the Great North Road.

Some buildings from the late 15th century still remain, such as the Tower and Inner Gatehouse. The Inner Gatehouse has been converted into self-catering guest apartments, while the Towers are available for schools and groups. The estate was later purchased by the Marshall family, who hired Col. Sir Robert Edis to build a large villa. Recently refurbished, the villa can host 30 guests.

Late 12th Century

Episcopal residence established, known to have been used by Hugh of Lincoln.

1209-1235

Bishop Hugh de Wells and Bishop Robert Grosseteste credited with building or rebuilding a manor house and the Great Hall.

1291-1292

Fire necessitates extensive rebuilding authorized by Thomas Beyville.

Late 15th Century

Extensive rebuilding and extension by bishops Thomas Rotherham and John Russell, including the Great Hall, gatehouses, and enclosing wall.

16th Century

Bishop Smith rebuilds Chapel, stables, barns, and makes improvements in the grounds.

1621-1641

Bishop Williams restores and refurbishes accommodation, but his conciliatory attitude towards Puritans leads to damage during the Civil War.

1641

Bishop Wiliams succeeded by Bishop Winniffe, who loses Buckden Palace during the Civil War.

1660

Buckden Palace restored to the Bishops of Lincoln; Bishop Saunderson repairs and rebuilds parts of the palace.

18th Century

Bishop Pretyman-Tomline adds a library and morning room next to the Chapel.

1837-1838

Buckden abandoned as a bishop’s residence; part of the buildings demolished and materials sold.

1869

Buckden Palace sold to Mr. James Marshall; old buildings demolished, and a new house built by Colonel Robert William Edis.

20th Century

Buckden Towers used as a school, convalescent hospital, and later a center for Catholic life.

1957-1965

Junior seminary established on the site, later replaced by a Catholic parish.

1976

St Claret Centre opened for conferences and retreats.

1987

Inner Gatehouse refurbished into apartments.

1996

Great Tower refurbished for residential use by young people.

Other interesting parts
of our history

Famously known as the place where Henry VIII kept Catherine of Aragon after the annulment of their marriage, Buckden Towers, has hosted many famous faces throughout its dramatic history.

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