Bisham Abbey

Bisham Abbey is a Grade I listed manor house in Bisham, Berkshire. It stands on the site of a former monastery, once known as Bisham Priory, which was the burial place for many Earls of Salisbury. The present buildings date back to around 1260, when they were built as a community house for Knights Templar. After the Templars were suppressed, the manor passed to King Edward II and later to William Montacute, the first Earl of Salisbury. The Hoby family owned the house from 1558 until 1768, and Elizabeth I was known to visit during their time. The house has witnessed notable historical events, including the imprisonment of Queen Elizabeth of the Scots and her family in 1310. It was also where Anne of Denmark stayed in 1610, and where the ghost of Dame Elizabeth Hoby is said to linger. The nearby priory, founded in 1337, was the resting place of several Earls of Salisbury, including Richard Neville, the famous Earl of Warwick. Though the priory was dissolved in the 16th century, its foundation stone can still be seen at Denchworth. Today, Bisham Abbey serves as one of three National Sports Centres managed by Sport England. It hosts elite athletes and teams for training camps, including England football and rugby squads. The site features modern facilities such as an international hockey pitch, tennis courts, a gym, and a golf course. The manor also remains a popular venue for weddings, conferences, and private events. The parish church nearby holds historic stained glass, including the arms of Anne of Denmark and James VI and I.