The Abbey

St Catherine's Chapel, located in Lydiate, Merseyside, England, and known locally as Lydiate Abbey, was built c. 1500 for the private worship of the Ireland family, who held the Lydiate lordship from 1410–1673. Its use as a private chapel probably ceased c. 1550, following Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries, though a small cemetery on the same grounds was still in use until the latter 19th century. The Chapel survives as a ruin, and is situated on the A5147, adjacent to the Scotch Piper Inn. It is now a Grade II* listed building,[1] and a Scheduled Monument.[2] In recent years, outdoor performances of Shakespeare have been held annually in the Chapel grounds. Markets are also held here in the summer where food and spices, face painting and carnival games are held.