ABSTRACT

The aim of this paper is to give a brief topographical context to the abbey and its buildings, particularly in the post-Conquest period. The parallel development of the town, which occupied two rather separate areas, is key to understanding this wider setting, along with the fen edge and the wider landscape. Cartographic, documentary, and archaeological evidence is used to examine each of the three settlement areas (abbey, Boongate, market town) in turn as a locus of lay settlement. A brief survey of the abbey precincts reveals significant lay access to the south, away from the town, demonstrating the significance of the river in the small-scale topography of the abbey. Lastly, the re-siting of the parish church in the 15th century is considered, with the effects this had on the planning of both town and abbey.