The Premonstratensian abbey of Barlings was founded in about 1150 and sited on a small island in the fen with access to the River Witham.

The abbey was a major wool producer by the 14th century, and favoured by Edward the Third, who stayed here several times.

The photograph shows the only standing remains, a blank bay of the nave which adjoined the central crossing of the 14th century church.

Frank Robinson, 2010

These earthworks are thought to be the remains of the Norman Castle which took advantage of a naturally defensive site which was improved by the building of ditches and a Motte and Bailey.

Further developments including an outer Bailey have made this site complex and difficult to interpret.

Beneath a trap door, on the north side of the nave, is one of the original Norman pier bases, found when the nave was being repaved.

Most of the original Norman Cathedral was destroyed by an earthquake in 1185.

The nave was subsequently rebuilt between 1200 and 1250.

Evidently during the rebuilding process the Norman pier base was left in situ rather than being removed.

DB 29 August 2018