Not strictly speaking a 'building' but it is one of the more unusual structures in the district.

Below the Southgate entrance to Pontefract General Infirmary is a little known monument, which has been described as "surprising and remarkable".

Discovered in October 1854 by workmen laying a new sewer in Southgate the Hermitage consists of two chambers; a well, reached by a spiral staircase of 63 steps and an oratory, both excavated by hand from the solid rock.

The oratory, with an altar including a cross, a fireplace and a seat has a domed ceiling (almost 8 feet at its highest point) and meaures 14 feet by 8 feet.

The first hermit recorded in Pontefract was Peter of Pomfret who was executed by King John in 1213 for predicting his downfall.

In 1386 there are records of a Robert de Laythorpe granting the hermit, Brother Adam, the hermitage and accompanying land for life.

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To enquire about the dates of scheduled open days or to arrange private visits, please contact the Pontefract & Archaeological Society, c/o Pontefract Museum, Salter Row, Pontefract WF8 1BA.

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