Hugh of Northwold

Hugh of Northwold (died 1254) was a medieval Bishop of Ely.

Life

Hugh was born in the parish of Northwold in Norfolk, the son of Peter and Emma. He became a monk at Abbey of Bury St Edmunds in 1202.

Hugh was elected Abbot of Bury St. Edmunds on 7 August 1213. King John of England, however, contested the election until 10 June 1215, when he finally accepted it. He was consecrated on 19 June 1229 His greatest work as bishop was his increase in the estates of the bishoprics, through buying new lands and increasing the rents on extant manors. He also worked with Thorney Abbey on reclamation of the fenlands surrounding Ely. The presbytery was built in order house a shrine to St. Etheldreda.

Hugh died on 6 August 1254 at Downham Market and was buried in his presbytery in Ely Cathedral. The tomb is still extant. The tomb is now located near the high altar in the north choir aisle of Ely Cathedral.