MAY 2025

Tucked away in the once marshy landscape of the Cambridgeshire fens lies Denny Abbey, a site steeped in layers of history. Though the area has been inhabited since Roman times, its medieval past is perhaps the most intriguing—especially its association with the Knights Templar.

Originally founded by Benedictine monks, the current abbey building dates back to before 1170. When the monks left Denny that year, the site was handed over to the Knights Templar, who repurposed it as a retirement home for elderly and infirm knights returning from the Crusades.

Although the detailed history of the Templar Preceptory at Denny is sparsely recorded, one surviving document from between 1229 and 1286 reveals that tithes from the nearby church at Great Witham—and from the Templar preceptory there—were used to support the aged knights living at Denny. Only one other known Templar infirmary in England existed, at Eagle in Lincolnshire, and both were once overseen by William de Forde, a respected Templar who clearly excelled as a guardian of the sick and elderly.

When the Templars were suppressed in the early 14th century, records indicate that at least fifteen knights were residing at Denny. They were imprisoned in nearby Cambridge Castle, and tragically, some did not survive to testify during the investigations. One of them, William de Marringe, died in captivity; two others possibly died before giving evidence in proceedings led by Roger de Ludlow and John de Hanville.

During their 130-year occupation, the Templars left a lasting mark on the fabric of Denny Abbey. They reshaped many of the original structures, including modifying the church. A south aisle was added to the nave—a typical feature in other Templar churches, such as at Garway. Excavations have uncovered Templar graves, with skeletal remains showing signs of degenerative diseases, likely from the physical strain of knighthood. One grave outside the west door was particularly notable: it held a pewter chalice and a lead disc marked with a geometric cross—possibly the burial of a Templar priest.

After the suppression of the Templars, Denny was handed over to the Knights Hospitaller, who showed little interest in the site. Eventually, it passed into the hands of the Poor Clares, an order of Franciscan nuns, who continued to develop the abbey.

Today, Denny Abbey stands as a remarkable museum, preserving the layered history of its many occupants. Visitors can see remnants of Templar architecture—elaborately carved capitals, a grand west door, and even a bearded corbel, possibly representing a Templar knight. A striking stone lion also survives, echoing the grandeur of the site’s medieval past.

While little of the original Templar infirmary survives above ground, hints remain. Stone foundations near the nuns’ refectory—still standing today—suggest this area may have once housed the retired knights who lived out their final days in the peaceful surroundings of Denny Abbey.

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