Heritage of Lindsey

As our homely pub’s name reveals, The Lindsey Rose is a historic landmark in the Village of Lindsey.

This village may appear small, but its long-lasting presence has stood the test of time, as the parish dates as far back as the Domesday Book of 1086. Containing three hamlets; Lindsey, Rose Green & Lindsey Tye (where we are located). Only having 38 households in 1083, our village has now grown to roughly 160 residents.

We boast a 700-year-old church that has traces back to the Domesday book. St Peter’s Church is a collage of Lindsey’s history as each part has origins to a different era. With 12th century graffiti and a 17th century memorial for the Hobart family, or even the mass dials scratched into the southern walls, there is so much to be learnt from just this building alone. Despite these changes over the centuries one thing remains constant and that is the sense of community provided through periods of isolation; from world wars to pandemics. 

Hidden behind the grand trees of our countryside is our own castle. Constructed in the 12th century without royal approval, as a stance against supporting either side in The Anarchy civil war (1135AD-1153AD).  Unfortunately, the adulterine castle was destroyed following the war, but remnants remain in its old earthworks.  

Not too far from the castle is St James Chapel, now in the care of English Heritage, since 1930. Prior to this change of ownership, the chapel had been simply used as barn, but English Heritage were able to uncover its deeper heritage. The chapel possibly dates back as far as the mid-12th century, implying that the chapel served the residents of the castle, even after the destruction of the castle.  

Lindsey is situated at the heart of Suffolk’s historical wool trade, and while not a wool town itself, the part the village played in its functioning was significant. Many residents would have woven the cloth that would then have been distributed across Europe, with the now private Tudor Barn being a key point of operation during that period.  

History is ever being created, and The Lindsey Rose is glad to continue its legacy. It makes us proud to be a part of this gem in Suffolk.  

Want to see a walk that will take you to all of Lindsey’s landmarks? Find out more on The Lindsey Rose’s Local Walks page.

October 2024