Finchale Priory
Explore the free, extensive ruins of a 13th-century priory set by the tranquil River Wear. A historical gem with scenic woodland walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Quiet and scenic
Finchale Priory
Best Time
Quiet and scenic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the free, extensive ruins of a 13th-century priory set by the tranquil River Wear. A historical gem with scenic woodland walks.
"A great place to spend a couple of hours, with beautiful grounds and amazing priory ruins."
🚶♀️ Woodland Wanderings
Enjoy the well-kept woodland paths leading to the priory. Great for dog walks!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the River Wear or within the priory grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Priory Ruins
Explore the extensive 13th-century priory ruins, a testament to medieval monastic life.
River Wear Setting
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the priory nestled by the scenic River Wear.
Woodland Walks
Wander through beautiful woodland paths leading to the priory, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ruins & River
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Woodland Wanderings
Enjoy the well-kept woodland paths leading to the priory. Great for dog walks!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the River Wear or within the priory grounds.
🚗 Parking Options
On-site parking is £4, or opt for free parking on Cockton Road.
☕ Cafe Caution
The cafe offers scones and reasonable prices, but service can be inconsistent.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Woodland Wanderings
Enjoy the well-kept woodland paths leading to the priory. Great for dog walks!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the River Wear or within the priory grounds.
🚗 Parking Options
On-site parking is £4, or opt for free parking on Cockton Road.
☕ Cafe Caution
The cafe offers scones and reasonable prices, but service can be inconsistent.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the ruins and river, especially on a sunny day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Finchale Priory for its stunning ruins, serene riverside location, and free entry, making it a peaceful escape. The woodland walks are a highlight, perfect for picnics and dog owners. However, some have experienced disappointing service at the on-site cafe, with one reviewer noting rude staff when trying to correct an order.
"Great place to spend a couple of hours . The grounds are beautiful and well kept. The priory is amazing , especially as it was built in the 1300 century . There are plenty of areas to have a sit down and have a picnic or if you want you can buy something at the little cafe. We noticed a few families down by the River Wear. With some play in the water."
Derek Booth
"Lovely walk thru the woods to the priory. Beautiful scenery and well kept paths round the ruins. A few boards to explain what each section was. Free heritage site.
Only downside was the cafe ( not heritage) I asked clearly for lattes and a kid served me blacks. I politely asked to exchange them and the woman was quite rude and then just splashed a bit of milk in. Maybe a bad day perhaps but it left me quite deflated. Don't think I want to return with my family. Scones were nice though and prices reasonable. Parking is $4 onsite or free on cockton road."
Samantha Whittleton
"Me and Star had a nice walk around Finchale Priory where we explored its ruins and went on a nice woodland walk. I also got her favourite doggy ice cream of scoops too.
Free to enter, just £4 charge for parking"
Matthew Turnbull
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finchale Priory is located near Durham. You can drive and use the on-site parking for £4, or find free parking on Cockton Road. It's also accessible via woodland walks.
Yes, Finchale Priory is a free heritage site to enter and explore.
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding woodlands to reach the priory ruins.
Absolutely! Finchale Priory is a dog-friendly location, and many visitors enjoy walking their pets there.
Yes, Finchale Priory makes for an excellent and easily accessible day trip from Durham, offering history and nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Finchale Priory is free. You only pay for parking if you use the on-site facility.
As an outdoor heritage site, Finchale Priory is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to check English Heritage for any specific advisories.
Finchale Priory is a free heritage site, so there is no admission fee to explore the ruins.
While official guided tours may not always be available, the site has information boards explaining its history.
There is a private car park on-site for £4. Alternatively, free parking is available on Cockton Road.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the extensive ruins of the 13th-century priory, enjoy the scenic River Wear, and walk through the surrounding woodlands.
Some areas of the ruins are fairly accessible, but the woodland paths can be uneven. It's best to check with English Heritage for detailed accessibility information.
Founded around 1196, it was built on the site of Saint Godric's home, who was rumored to be a pirate before turning to religion.
Yes, there are toilets available on-site, which are well-maintained.
Families can enjoy exploring the ruins, having picnics, and some children play by the River Wear.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small cafe on-site that offers scones and other refreshments.
For more extensive dining, you would need to travel back towards Durham, which has numerous restaurants and cafes. +1
Yes, Finchale Priory is an ideal spot for a picnic, with beautiful grounds and riverside views.
The cafe is known to serve scones and has reasonable prices, though the coffee service has been noted as inconsistent.
Information on specific dietary options at the cafe is limited, but scones are typically vegetarian.
📸 📸 Photography
The priory ruins against the backdrop of the River Wear offer stunning photographic opportunities. The woodland paths also provide scenic shots.
Yes, Finchale Priory is a popular spot for wedding photos due to its picturesque ruins and natural setting.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photography, with fewer crowds. Sunny days enhance the scenery.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites. It's advisable to check with English Heritage or local authorities before flying a drone.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Walkers & Hikers
+1 The grounds themselves are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the proximity to the River Wear provides beautiful riverside walking opportunities. It's a great spot for a moderate walk that combines history with nature. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Finchale Priory
+1The priory itself developed into a significant monastic institution. Its ruins, dating primarily from the 13th century, offer a glimpse into medieval ecclesiastical architecture and daily life. Visitors can explore the remnants of the church, cloister, and other monastic buildings, imagining the lives of the monks who once called this place home.
Today, Finchale Priory stands as a testament to centuries of history, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. Its free entry and beautiful natural surroundings make it a popular spot for history enthusiasts, walkers, and families alike. The site is managed by English Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Exploring the Grounds and River Wear
Surrounding the priory are charming woodland paths that are well-maintained and perfect for exploration. These trails are particularly popular with dog walkers, offering a safe and scenic route for pets to enjoy. The combination of the river, the woods, and the ancient ruins creates a multi-faceted experience for visitors.
Families often find the riverbanks an inviting area for children to play, adding to the priory's appeal as a family-friendly destination. The natural beauty of the area, especially during spring and summer, enhances the overall visit, making it a refreshing escape from urban life.
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