Prior of Bromholm

Contents

1. Navigation

Introduction

The Prior of Bromholm refers to the head of Bromholm Priory, a medieval Cluniac monastery founded in 1113 in Bacton, Norfolk. The house was famous for housing a revered relic of the True Cross, attracting widespread pilgrimage and literary mentions by Chaucer and Langland.

History and Context

Foundation: Established by William de Glanville, Lord of Bacton.
Status: Originally subordinate to Castle Acre Priory, it gained independence in the late 12th to 13th centuries.
The Paston Connection: The priory was closely tied to the prominent Norfolk family behind the Paston Letters, with members of the family acting as benefactors and patrons. John Paston was famously collated to the priory in 1418, and family members (including John Paston I) were buried on the grounds.
Suppression: The priory and the office of the prior were dissolved during the suppression of the monasteries in 1536.

Connection to Deopham

The 1488 Extent of the Manor of Deopham recorded that the Prior of Bromholm had at one time owned an acre of freehold land on which the Manor of Deopham was owed an annual rent of 4d.

Date	Change
6/9/26	Published