Finchale Priory, Medieval priory ruins in Framwellgate Moor, England
Description
Finchale Priory is a medieval monastery's remains situated beside the River Wear, featuring stone buildings with Gothic architectural details. The ruins include sections of a church, cloister, and residential structures that once housed a religious community.
History
Founded in 1196 on the site of a hermit's dwelling, the priory functioned as a retreat for monks from Durham Cathedral. It was abandoned during the English Reformation in 1538 when religious communities were dissolved.
Culture
The layout reveals how Benedictine monks organized their daily lives, with spaces arranged for prayer, work, and communal living. Walking through, you understand the rhythm of monastic routines that shaped this place for centuries.
Practical
The site is freely accessible and managed by English Heritage, with information boards located throughout the grounds. Walking around is straightforward, though parking nearby requires payment.
Did you know?
During World War II, German aircraft accidentally bombed the priory while targeting Durham Cathedral, mistaking their location in heavy fog. This chance event shows how the war's impacts reached even this remote spot.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Framwellgate Moor).
Lumley Castle
4.2 km
St Mary and St Cuthbert, Chester-le-Street
4.7 km
Concangis
4.8 km
Crook Hall
4.6 km
Kepier Hospital
4.2 km
County Hall, Durham
4.7 km
St Giles Church, Durham
4.7 km
Joe's Pond
3.4 km
Ropery Lane
4.3 km
Pittington Hill
4.1 km
Crook Hall Gardens
4.6 km
United Reformed Church
5 km
Belmont viaduct
2.2 km
Church of St Mary Magdalene
3.6 km
Church of St Mary
2.5 km
Church of St Barnabas
4.5 km
Church of St Laurence
4.7 km
Church of St Cuthbert
5 km
Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene
4.5 km
Penny Ferry Bridge
4.9 km
Durham Clayport Library
5.1 km
Rex Cinema
4.3 km
Cocken Bridge
1.7 km
Guide Post In Front Of No 19
3.8 km
Hallgarth War Memorial
4.7 km
Finchale Bridge
133 m
Kepier Farmhouse
4.1 km
Baths Bridge
5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes