Place Name

Mount St Bernard Abbey, Leicestershire, England

Where Monks have a Wild Time and the Abbey Blushes!

Introduction:

Mount St Bernard Abbey, where the hills are alive with the sound of... well, monks chanting? Nestled in the serene Leicestershire countryside, this place has a name that sounds like it was concocted during a particularly lively game of Scrabble. One can almost imagine a group of monks, quills in hand, debating the merits of ‘St Bernard’ versus ‘Mount’ while sipping herbal tea. What’s in a name, you ask? In this case, everything! The combination of ‘Mount’ and ‘St Bernard’ suggests a heavenly retreat, possibly for dogs and their owners, but alas, it’s just for those seeking spiritual solace.

Let’s dive into the delightful absurdity of this name and the wonders that await those who venture here.

Toponymy:

Let’s break down this name:

Mount – A word that usually evokes images of grand peaks and daring climbers. Here, it’s more of a gentle hill, perfect for contemplative strolls rather than adrenaline-fuelled expeditions. Perhaps the monks were just being optimistic when they named it?

St Bernard – Now, this is where it gets interesting. Named after the patron saint of dogs, St Bernard himself was a bit of a legend. But who knew he’d end up sharing his name with a bunch of contemplative chaps in Leicestershire? One can’t help but wonder if the monks had a soft spot for large, fluffy canines.

Together, they form a name that makes visitors pause before saying it aloud, perhaps while trying to suppress a giggle or two.

Historical Context:

Mount St Bernard Abbey was founded in 1835 by a group of Trappist monks who were likely looking for a quiet spot to avoid the hustle and bustle of life. Or perhaps they just fancied a good view while they prayed.

The name itself reflects a blend of reverence and whimsy, as if the monks were trying to convince the world that they were both serious about their faith and a tad cheeky about their location. Over the years, the abbey has served as a place of worship, contemplation, and the occasional unexpected tourist who stumbles upon it while trying to find a good pub.

Regardless, Mount St Bernard Abbey ensures that travellers arrive ready to speculate on whether logic was ever involved in naming this peaceful retreat.

Points of Interest:

If you’re in the area, be sure to check out:

• Mount St Bernard Abbey – The main attraction, where you can explore the tranquil grounds, join in on services, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that seems to whisper, “Take a chill pill.”

• Charnwood Forest – A stunning natural feature that offers a plethora of walking trails, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of fresh air and perhaps a chance encounter with a deer or two.

• The Great Central Railway – A museum and heritage railway that allows you to step back in time and experience the charm of steam locomotives. Just don’t forget your flat cap!

• Coalville – A nearby town that’s worth a visit for its rich mining history and the chance to grab a pie at one of the local bakeries. Because who doesn’t love a good pie?

• The Royal Oak Pub – A traditional pub that serves up hearty meals and a selection of local ales. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, or for simply enjoying the company of locals who might regale you with tales of the area.

Notable Figures:

Famous people who have been directly associated with Mount St Bernard Abbey or Leicestershire include:

• Sir Jonathan North – A notable figure in the world of education, he served as the Director of Education for Leicestershire, helping shape the future of many young minds in the region.

• William Morris – The famous designer and writer who had connections to the area. His influence on the Arts and Crafts movement can still be felt today, particularly in local art and design.

• David Attenborough – The legendary broadcaster and natural historian was born in nearby Isleworth but spent much of his early life in Leicester. His love for nature and conservation has inspired countless people around the globe.

• Richard III – Yes, the infamous king himself! While he may not have lived in the abbey, his legacy still looms large over Leicestershire, especially after his remains were discovered in a car park in Leicester. Talk about a plot twist!

• Jasper Carrott – The comedian and actor hails from Birmingham but has strong connections to Leicestershire. His humour has entertained many, proving that laughter truly is the best medicine.

Conclusion:

So, next time you find yourself at Mount St Bernard Abbey, take a moment to admire how geography refuses to follow common sense—while questioning whether history really meant for this name to stick. And remember, in a world filled with ordinary place names, it’s always a delight to stumble upon one that makes you chuckle and ponder the absurdity of it all.

For more amusing insights into the quirks of geography, get on the pony express and ride www.strangeplacenames.com - because the UK & Ireland are fully loaded of names that are just waiting to make you giggle.

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