Birkenhead Priory, Medieval monastery ruins in Birkenhead, England
Birkenhead Priory is a medieval monastery in Wirral with stone structures including a chapter house and St Mary's Tower that overlook the River Mersey and Liverpool waterfront. The site contains remains that reflect its former monastic layout and function.
The priory was founded in 1101 as a Benedictine monastery and operated until its closure during the Reformation. Its location near Ireland and Wales made it strategically important, attracting visits from King Edward I.
The Chapter House still functions as an active Anglican church, keeping the space alive for worship today. The Scriptorium houses a chapel dedicated to the HMS Conway training ship and maritime heritage.
Access to the priory is free and available Wednesday through Sunday, with extended hours during summer. Guided tours can be arranged for school groups, offering deeper insight into the site's history and layout.
A burial vault in the churchyard holds the remains of John Laird, Birkenhead's first Member of Parliament and founder of Cammell Laird shipbuilding company. This connection to the shipping industry ties the monastery's legacy to the town's industrial rise.
Location: Wirral
Inception: 12 century
Website: http://thebirkenheadpriory.org
GPS coordinates: 53.38959,-3.01169
Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03
Birkenhead Town Hall
438 m
Monument to the Mersey Tunnel
236 m
Remains of Church of St Mary
31 m
42 - 44 Hamilton Street, Birkenhead
405 m
29 - 47 Market Street, Birkenhead
439 m
25 & 27 Market Street, Birkenhead
411 m
The Copperfield Public House
409 m
Chapter House Chapel at Birkenhead Priory
15 m
56 - 66 Market Street, Birkenhead
470 m
11 - 13 Market Street, Birkenhead
287 m
Albion Street mews, Birkenhead
454 m
12 And 14, Market Street And 75, Albion Street
315 m
1 - 11 Cross Street, Birkenhead
272 m
30 - 34 Hamilton Street, Birkenhead
329 m
Birkenhead Institute War Memorial, Hamilton Square
421 m
90 - 92 Chester Street & 3 - 9 Market Street, Birkenhead
267 m
Birkenhead entrance to Queensway Tunnel
267 m
1 - 6 Mortimer Street, Birkenhead
450 m
51 - 57 Hamilton Square, Birkenhead
427 m
52 - 54 Hamilton Street, Birkenhead
394 m
6, Duncan Street
389 m
56 Hamilton Street, Birkenhead
391 m
Former stables and carriage houses to Numbers 52 To 57 Hamilton Square
396 m
17 Brandon Street
411 m
Pair Of K6 Telephone Kiosks At Corner With Duncan Street
409 m
50 Hamilton Street, Birkenhead
398 m
94-104, Chester Street
254 m
Sessions Court, Birkenhead
394 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover 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