Dale Abby

The history of Dale Abbey reveals a series of transitions among religious communities, beginning with the Augustinian canons in 1162, followed by Premonstratensian canons from different origins. Despite early struggles due to isolation and poor land, by 1199, the Abbey stabilized and thrived for 340 years, supporting a small community of 24 canons. It played a vital role in the region, providing priests and owning approximately 24,000 acres, which were utilized for grazing and producing goods for the Abbey's residents.