Lanercost Priory
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Lanercost Priory, a historic Augustinian priory that hosted English and Scottish kings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Lanercost Priory
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Lanercost Priory, a historic Augustinian priory that hosted English and Scottish kings.
"An impressive ruin with remarkably well-preserved medieval tombs and striking architecture."
Combine with Hadrian's Wall
Lanercost Priory is a great pit stop on the way to Hadrian's Wall. Birdoswald Roman Fort is only 6 miles away!
Look for Gargoyles
Keep an eye out for the gargoyles; they are not to be missed and staff can help you spot them!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aisle of Kings
Main Priory Structure
Walk down the historic aisle where kings like Edward I once trod, a path steeped in centuries of royal and military history.
Medieval Tombs & Architecture
Priory Ruins
Marvel at remarkably well-preserved medieval tombs and striking architectural details that speak to the priory's grand past.
Dacre Hall
Adjacent to Priory
Explore Dacre Hall, reputed to be England's oldest village hall, forming part of the 12th-century priory complex.
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Planning Your Visit
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Admission & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Hadrian's Wall
Lanercost Priory is a great pit stop on the way to Hadrian's Wall. Birdoswald Roman Fort is only 6 miles away!
Look for Gargoyles
Keep an eye out for the gargoyles; they are not to be missed and staff can help you spot them!
Wildlife Spotting
The ruins are buzzing with life! Look for swallows, kestrels, and wildflowers.
Gift Shop & Tea Room
There's a gift shop and tea room on-site for refreshments and souvenirs.
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Hadrian's Wall
Lanercost Priory is a great pit stop on the way to Hadrian's Wall. Birdoswald Roman Fort is only 6 miles away!
Look for Gargoyles
Keep an eye out for the gargoyles; they are not to be missed and staff can help you spot them!
Wildlife Spotting
The ruins are buzzing with life! Look for swallows, kestrels, and wildflowers.
Gift Shop & Tea Room
There's a gift shop and tea room on-site for refreshments and souvenirs.
Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial perspectives of the priory with a drone, weather permitting!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lanercost Priory as an impressive and well-preserved ruin with striking architecture and significant historical depth. Many highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, the well-maintained site, and the peaceful atmosphere. It's often recommended as a worthwhile stop, especially when combined with nearby attractions like Hadrian's Wall.
"An impressive ruin. Some remarkably well preserved medieval tombs and some striking architecture. Then visit the church next door. Do the Priory as part of a longer day's outing...it will not long detain you. Perhaps Birdoswald Roman fort, about 6 miles away."
Duncan Parsons
"Absolutely loved this place. The English Heritage guide was brilliant, full of information. You could tell he loved the place and not just worked there. It's not a big site but well worth a visit"
Damon Atkins
"A must if you are in the area.
You can walk 0.5miles to Hadrians Wall from the abbey but it was raining.
Tea rooms and gift shop also on site.
Great pit stop on the way to the wall.
The swallows dance in and out of the buildings."
Chris Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lanercost Priory is located near Brampton in Cumbria. It's accessible by car, and is often visited as part of a trip along Hadrian's Wall. Public transport options may be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi from nearby towns is advisable.
Yes, Lanercost Priory is conveniently located about 6 miles from Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian's Wall, making it an excellent addition to a Hadrian's Wall itinerary.
You can walk approximately 0.5 miles to Hadrian's Wall from the priory, though this might be less appealing in inclement weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Lanercost Priory is not free; it costs around £12 for adults. You can view the exterior from the graveyard without charge, but to explore the ruins and access the facilities, a ticket is required.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it's often recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry and avoid potential disappointment. Check the English Heritage website for booking options.
As a historic ruin, some areas may have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to contact the site directly or check the English Heritage website for specific accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Aisle of Kings' offers a dramatic perspective, while the well-preserved tombs and the overall ruin structure provide numerous photographic opportunities. Consider capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the stonework.
Drone footage of Lanercost Priory has been captured, offering unique aerial views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or filming, you may need to seek permission from English Heritage. Always be respectful of other visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a tea room and gift shop on-site where you can enjoy refreshments and purchase snacks or light meals.
Nearby towns like Brampton will offer more dining options. For a quick bite, the on-site tea room is convenient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger outing, perhaps combined with a visit to a more interactive section of Hadrian's Wall like Birdoswald Roman Fort, which is a short drive away.
🚶 History Buffs & Photographers
Don't miss the chance to examine the medieval tombs and architectural details. Photographers will find the atmospheric ruins, especially the 'Aisle of Kings,' to be a fantastic subject.
+1 The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones, coupled with the surrounding natural landscape, offers numerous opportunities for stunning shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The priory suffered during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, leading to its ruinous state today. Despite its dissolution, parts of the priory complex have been repurposed. Dacre Hall, adjacent to the ruins, is reputed to be the oldest village hall in England and is integrated into the 12th-century priory structure.
The priory's history is palpable as you walk through its remains, imagining the lives of the monks and the royal visitors who passed through its halls. The site is also known for its natural beauty and wildlife. Visitors have noted the presence of swallows dancing in and out of the buildings and kestrels nesting in the ruins, adding a layer of vibrant life to the historic stones.
Exploring the Ruins
The 'Aisle of Kings' is a particularly evocative section, where you can trace the footsteps of royalty. Look closely at the stonework to discover well-preserved medieval tombs and intricate architectural details that hint at the priory's former grandeur. While the main priory is an English Heritage site with an admission fee, the surrounding graveyard offers views of the ruins from the outside.
Many visitors find the priory to be a peaceful and atmospheric place, perfect for quiet contemplation or photography. The blend of history, architecture, and the surrounding natural beauty makes it a memorable stop.
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