In the Shadow of the Abbey

Explores the unique history of Bisham Village, telling the story of those who lived in and around Bisham Abbey in Berkshire. Each episode recounts the history, a personal story or the impact of an event; based on interviews with people who lived here all their lives, local knowledge and documents from the last 300 years. The War Years episodes recount life in the village after the Great War from 1918-1924 based on the delightful Bisham Parish Reports. The Abbey History episodes tell the story of Bisham Abbey and the Vansittart Family who were the Lords of the Manor of Bisham for 200 years, they sold the whole village in 1965. The Village Stories, based on interviews with people who grew up in Bisham in the 1940s and 1950s, tell tales of ordinary families who lived in the shadow of the abbey. Researched and written by Sheila Featherstone-Clark.

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In the Shadow of the Abbey

Bisham Church in 15 minutes

September 01, 2023 • Sheila Featherstone-Clark and friends • Season 3 • Episode 1

This track guides you round the highlights of Bisham Church in 15 minutes. All Saints Bisham sits on the banks of the River Thames by an ancient river crossing with a clunch chalk Norman tower and significant extensions from 1566, 1849 and 1870. Enjoy the peaceful churchyard.
The church was always linked with Bisham Abbey after the priory was demolished and the monastery closed. Home to the Knights Templar then three great families; Salisbury, Hoby and Vansittart for over 600 years. Bisham Abbey became the first national sports centre in 1946 and was sold 60 years ago in memory of the 2 heirs (Berkeley and Guy) killed in WWII.

The spectacular Hoby monuments (featured in the Simon Jenkins book) contrast with the simple gunmetal of the Williams copper family and the tragedy of the Vansittarts. Investigate the stories hidden in the church.

Longer tours are available via Bishamchurchfriends.org

Written and narrated by Sheila Featherstone-Clark