Lesnes Abbey sees £250k grant to mark 500th anniversary of dissolution
Lesnes Abbey is set to see two years of events to mark 500 years sine its dissolution with a £250,000 grant The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Bexley Council is launching Lesnes 500 from May 2025 to June 2027.
This site recently highlighted what a treasure the Abbey is which is now more accessible than ever thanks to the Elizabeth line’s arrival. The Abbey ruins are a short walk from Abbey Wood station.
Events
The project will focus on heritage, creativity, nature and education with art clubs, early years projects, new herb garden, archaeological digs, events, festivals, tours, markets, improvements to structures and more.
The project is being delivered in collaboration with several local and creative partners, each bringing their own expertise to the programme.
Partners involved are:
- The Friends of Lesnes Abbey and Woods (FoLAW)
- North West Kent Countryside Partnership
- Creative Nature HQ & Forest Club
- Ruined Theatre
- DigVentures
Cllr Richard Diment, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said:
‘‘Lesnes Abbey is one of Bexley’s most treasured historic sites and marking 500 years since the dissolution of the Abbey gives us a unique opportunity to reflect on its rich past while investing in its future.
Through Lesnes 500, we are bringing together creativity, heritage education and the environment to offer something truly special for our residents.
This project captures the very spirit of #CelebratingBexley – connecting communities, honouring our history and creating lasting value for generations to come.”
The restoration work to the Abbey that forms part of the project, will safeguard the site for future generations, while engaging residents through new volunteer opportunities and learning experiences.
Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:
“We are delighted to support Lesnes Abbey with this fantastic project looking back at 500 years of its history while looking forwards to its future. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, more people will be able to get involved with, protect, and learn about the exciting heritage right on their doorstep. This project is a great example of partners working together to celebrate the heritage of Lesnes Abbey and Bexley as part of CelebratingBexley and we’re proud to be a part of it.”
For more information or to get involved email lesnesabbey@bexley.gov.
