More information : (SX 3596 5778) Port Eliot and remains of (NAT) Priory (NR) (1)
A monastery may have existed at St Germans from the 7th century. The importance of the Celtic monastery was the reason for the foundation of a bishopric by Athelstan in the church at St Germans (see SX 35 NE 9 for church and SX 35 NE 8 for episcopal manor house). The see was united to Crediton in 1042, the bishop ruling over both monasteries, with the collegiate system being introduced about 1050. It was refounded for Augustinian canons in 1161-84. The priory was dissolved in 1539, the buildings and land being bought by John Eliot in 1564.
The present house, incorporates the 13th century undercroft, with lancet windows, of the priory conventual buildings. The main block of the house roughly represents the north range of the buildings, with the Prior's lodging adjoining at right angles at the east end. (See SX 35 NE 33 for priory deer park) (2-6)
For details of Port Elliot House see SX 35 NE 39. |