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Archaeology, Sites to See

Franciscan Friary

This Friary of the Franciscan Order (the ‘Grey Friars’) was founded by Thomas Wake, Lord of the Manor of Ware, in 1338. The religious foundation survived until the suppression of the monasteries by Henry VIII, but was dissolved in 1538. The monastic buildings then suffered a long period of decay and decline, and the Church and much of the rest of the Friary was demolished. The remainder, which now provides offices for Ware Town Council, was altered considerably during its long term use as a private house. In World War I it was used as a hospital, and in 1920 its owner gave the building to Ware Urban District Council. However, the present ‘Priory’, contains part of the Friary’s south cloister range (covered walkway), and the guest hall, and recently, an extensive renovation programme uncovered previously unknown medieval architectural details, and also new evidence for the lay-out of the destroyed monastic buildings.

‘The Priory’ is at the end of High Street, Ware, at its junction with Priory Street and next to the river. Its attractive grounds are open to the public. Grid reference TL 3555 1432.

Map showing Franciscan Priory