Beauchief Abbey was founded by Robert Fitz Ranulf de Alfreton, the lord of Norton and various manors in Derbyshire. He oversaw its foundations being laid in the early 1200's, and legend has it that his eagerness to build such a wonderful house of God stems from his part in the murder of Thomas a Becket earlier on in that decade: building the Abbey was part of his penance.
Along with the generosity of other local lords, who gave cattle fields and cornmills and other offerings, the White Canons who entered the
order appear to have been very well looked after. The site of their ancient corn mill in Sheffield is today remembered as Millhouses.
Only the 12th century west tower of Beauchief Abbey remains standing today. There are rumours that underground passages riddle the local terrain, and some researchers into the paranormal have suggested that the Abbey is built along ancient lines of earth power known as ley lines. This may not be such an unusual idea, since many of the older churches and abbeys all over the country are felt to have been built oh over sites of natural power, once used by practitioners of the old religion.
A mysterious White Lady has been seen flitting in and out of the ruins of Beauchief Abbey, along with a hooded monk whom some say has a skeleton for a face. The legend of the underground tunnels was noted by Addy in his collection of local folklore tales. In such a tunnel between the Abbey and Norton Church, it is said that a metal box exists containing great treasure, which must be approached by riding a backward-shod white horse into the passageway. From hereon, the adventurer may open the box, which will reveal untold-of delights!
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