Rothley, Leicestershire

Knights and Dames of the Grand Priory of Knights Templar in England and Wales assembled at Rothley on 4th July 2004.

Rothley Temple stood between Leicester and Loughborough. The Templars already had land at Rothley in 1203; other lands in the vicinity were also given to them later.

It is believed that the Preceptory was established about 1231, "the year in which Henry III granted the manor and advowson of Rothley church to the Templars in free alms. Later on the preceptory came to include lands in thirteen neighbouring areas, several mills, large pastures for sheep grazing and five dependent chapels." (1)

Today, the site of the original preceptory is occupied by a hotel. George Tull says that there is basically nothing left from medieval times today, "apart from the chapel (circa 1240) which remains intact. Architecturally this is impressive in its simplicity. It has been carefully restored and is used occasionally for weddings and other special events." (2)

After 1231, Rothley Temple became a major centre of Templar activity, with estates from Ashby Folville to Wymondham in Norfolk. In 1285 Edward I gave the Templars the right to hold a weekly market in the village of Rothely, and an annual fair on the eve, the feast day, and the morrow of St. Barnabas (11th June). The 13th c. Templar Chapel at Rothley is certainly well worth a visit today.

Please also see:   References:  
  1. Tull, George, Traces of the Templars, p109
  2. ibid
Key Historical Figures Associated   More recently, in the 18th century, William Wilberforce and Thomas Babington drafted The Act of Parliament which abolished slavery throughout the British Empire at Rothley Temple. Closely Associated Sites   None known  

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VISITING THE SITE
Access P P = open to public;
A = by arrangement;
X = private
Opening times
Comments on Access Templar Chapel, Rothley Court Hotel, Leics.
Tel: 01162 374141
Ownership / Management Old English Inns & Hotels
Tours
 
Distance from nearest town approx 7 mls due north of Leicester city centre
Nearest Trunk Road intersection A6 / A46(?)
Where to stay / eat
(Templar contacts) 		None known
Where to stay / eat
(Other) 		The Rothley Court Hotel now occupies the site!
Other local Templar contacts None known
Places of interest nearby Rothley railway station has recently been restored and is on a short private line on which steam trains run.

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