Large numbers of pilgrims visited the reputed site of Kenelm's murder throughout the medieval period, encouraging the newly installed Abbot of Halesowen to built a chapel on the site about 1220. In 1253, Roger de Somery, lord of the manor of Clent, also exploited the pilgrims by obtaining a royal charter to hold an annual fair at the Feast of St Kenelm (17 July). The fair continued to be held next to St. Kenelm's Church until well into the 19th century. It was customary at this time for the villagers to pelt each other and the curate of St. Kenelm's with crab apples, which were abundant at that season.