Founded by William Marshall the Younger, for the Dominican Friars
in 1225, the Black Abbey was also known as theConvent of the One
and Undivided Trinity. It was suppressed in 1543, converted into
a courthouse and served as such until the end of the 17th century.
Partially restored in 1778, the Abbey did not become a place of
public worship until the mid-19th century when it was converted
into a parish church. The exterior bears the marks of the church
being much larger with long disappeared aisles. This can be seen
on the walls of the tower in the photograph above. The current
church is "L" shaped, so it can be surmised that the
Abbey lost a transept at some stage.
The interior is very atmospheric with clear glazing throughout
most of the "L" shaped church but with some very unsuitable
modern glass inserted behind the altar. The stonework throughout
is excellent and the interior has a fine wooden roof.