Ramsey Abbey was founded in 969 by Saint Oswald, Bishop of Worcester through the gift of a local magnate, Æthelwine. The Abbey itself was then situated on a peninsula of gravel, known as Bodsey Island, with the impassable fen to three sides. The chapel was replaced by a large, stone-built church over the next five years until a much grander project was created in the 12th century. 

In 1937 the family leased the building for 99 years to Ramsey Abbey School and in 1952 they donated the gatehouse to the National Trust, who allow it to be used as part of the school

Further Information on activities in and around Ramsey:

http://www.discoverramsey.co.uk/things-to-do/