Island of the Princes, AthleneyAthelney can be translated as 'Island of the Princes' and evidence suggests that it was used as a site for defensive settlements since the Bronze Age. Its significance in English history lies in its links with King Alfred The Great who used the remote marshlands as a hiding place and an area to re-launch his campaigns against the Danes in 879 Ad.
After regaining his throne in later years and sending the Danes out of Wessex and Southern England, Alfred erected a monastery on the site to give thanks to his victory.
A recent Time Team dig has revealed the remains of King Alfred’s fort as well as the remains of the Abbey walls and some burials.
A monument was erected in 1801 to commemorate the significance of the area and reads:
'King Alfred the Great in the year of our Lord 879 having been defeated by the Danes fled for refuge to the forest of Athelney where, hey lay concealed from his enemy for the space of a whole year. He soon regained possession of his throne and in careful remembrance of the protection he had received under the favour of heaven, erected a monastery on this spot and endowed it with all the lands contained to the Isle of Athelney. To perpetuate the memorial of so remarkable an incident in the life of that illustrious price, this edifice was founded by John Slade Esq of Maunsel, the property of Athelney Farm and Lord of the Manor of North Petherton. Ad 1807’
Visitors who want to visit the monument will need to ask permission at Athelney Farm which is located next to the monument. Alternatively the monument can be viewed from the lay by on the A361 Burrowbridge to East Lyng road.
Additional InformationOther Facilities | Located on the River Parrett Trail. Near by facilities include the King Alfred pub in Burrow Bridge, The Rose and Crown in East Lyng, Coates Willow Centre in Stokes St Gregory and the White Hart Inn and Coffee Shop in North Curry. |
Contact Details
New Road
Athleney
How to Find UsThe site can be viewed from a lay by on the A361 between Burrow Bridge and East Lyng or can be visited by walking to the monument using a permissive pathway on Cutts Road which is situated off the A361, turning at East Lyng. You must ask permission to visit the monument at Athelney Farm. The site is not well signposted so look for footpath signs for the River Parrett Trail near the bridge.
EventsNo details available - please check back
| 
