Finchale Priory is a 13th-century Augustinian priory situated in County Durham, England. The priory's architecture is a mix of medieval and Gothic styles, with a striking red sandstone façade and a tall, narrow tower. The building's tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by its picturesque surroundings, nestled among trees and overlooking the River Wear. The priory's interior features a stunning chapel with intricate stone carvings, ornate tombs, and vibrant stained-glass windows. Visitors can explore the priory's cloisters, chapter house, and monastic quarters, gaining insight into the lives of the monks who once inhabited the site.
Very nice place to wander round. Unfortunately,other than a few name plates to identify the rooms, there were no information boards that would have been a nice addition. Although it is free to enter, you have to pay to get out (PS4 per car)
Tucked away in the beautiful Durham countryside alongside the River Wear, Finchale Priory is a well preserved building considering its age. We only put in a quick visit, but what we saw was a gem of a site. Very well laid out and obviously tended by dedicated staff who look after the site. The cafe was a splendid, welcoming addition. Very pleasant staff eager to help added to our visit. We will visit again and take a bit longer on our visit.
Nice and calm place to visit. Building' s structure/architecture is preserved to a great extent. You can also take a short walk along the river. Entrance to the priory is free to everyone. Maintained by English Heritage, but the car park is run by a private landlord. Parking is PS4 per vehicle and payable at the exit by contactless modes.
Even though it is only approximately 4 miles from Durham when you step into the grounds it feels so remote, the beautiful location could be described as idyllic sitting in a bend of the River Wear. My visit formed part of a 12 mile walk starting off in Durham. Its free to visit however there is a car park charge as the land is privately owned, there's a small shop selling Ice Creams and drinks, plus toilets with an honesty box asking 50p for the up keep sorry guys I only has 30 in change on me
Yesterday, I visited Finchale Priory, a 6-mile journey from Durham City on a nice sunny day; the temperature being 21degC was just right. I parked my bike by the side of the river and climbed up the stone steps to take me onto the main road. This space was filled with an assortment of visitors and locals, and it was heartwarming to see children playing while others were enjoying their surroundings outside. At the priory, I saw much that was devoted to St. Godric, who had lived a most extraordinary life as a sailor and a merchant before deciding to adopt Finchale on the River Wear as his home. Founded in 1196, the priory is now today's beautiful Finchale Priory - well, not quite entirely. I saw St. Godric's original 12th-century church and stopped by his tomb. Also, there was the 13th-century priory, which has rather significantly been restored. St Godric's tomb--marked incidentally by a cross in the grass--is truly something to behold. St Godric was known as something of a healer and was frequently consulted by many notable people such as Thomas Becket, Aelred of Rievaulx, and even Pope Alexander III. He also heard the song of the Blessed Virgin Mary during a pilgrimage, which to him was overwhelming. Finchale Priory is not only rich in history, but it's a haven for many aspects of natural beauty, always appealing to tourists interested in birdwatching or outdoor pursuits. The walk through the woods and across the meadows is enchanting, with a chance to immerse oneself in natural beauty that poignantly captures a sense of England's rich history and heritage.
Priory ruins with coffee shop and toilet facilities. Nice riverside walk and places for families with children to sit by the river. Only PS4 per car to enter and park.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Hello! I'm your AI guide for Finchale Priory. I can help you with information about this attraction, including its history, best times to visit, and tips for your visit. What would you like to know?
Discover hotels in Finchale Ave, Framwellgate Moor, Durham DH1 5SH
Searching for hotels...
Very nice place to wander round. Unfortunately,other than a few name plates to identify the rooms, there were no information boards that would have been a nice addition. Although it is free to enter, you have to pay to get out (PS4 per car)
Tucked away in the beautiful Durham countryside alongside the River Wear, Finchale Priory is a well preserved building considering its age. We only put in a quick visit, but what we saw was a gem of a site. Very well laid out and obviously tended by dedicated staff who look after the site. The cafe was a splendid, welcoming addition. Very pleasant staff eager to help added to our visit. We will visit again and take a bit longer on our visit.
Nice and calm place to visit. Building' s structure/architecture is preserved to a great extent. You can also take a short walk along the river. Entrance to the priory is free to everyone. Maintained by English Heritage, but the car park is run by a private landlord. Parking is PS4 per vehicle and payable at the exit by contactless modes.
Even though it is only approximately 4 miles from Durham when you step into the grounds it feels so remote, the beautiful location could be described as idyllic sitting in a bend of the River Wear. My visit formed part of a 12 mile walk starting off in Durham. Its free to visit however there is a car park charge as the land is privately owned, there's a small shop selling Ice Creams and drinks, plus toilets with an honesty box asking 50p for the up keep sorry guys I only has 30 in change on me
Yesterday, I visited Finchale Priory, a 6-mile journey from Durham City on a nice sunny day; the temperature being 21degC was just right. I parked my bike by the side of the river and climbed up the stone steps to take me onto the main road. This space was filled with an assortment of visitors and locals, and it was heartwarming to see children playing while others were enjoying their surroundings outside. At the priory, I saw much that was devoted to St. Godric, who had lived a most extraordinary life as a sailor and a merchant before deciding to adopt Finchale on the River Wear as his home. Founded in 1196, the priory is now today's beautiful Finchale Priory - well, not quite entirely. I saw St. Godric's original 12th-century church and stopped by his tomb. Also, there was the 13th-century priory, which has rather significantly been restored. St Godric's tomb--marked incidentally by a cross in the grass--is truly something to behold. St Godric was known as something of a healer and was frequently consulted by many notable people such as Thomas Becket, Aelred of Rievaulx, and even Pope Alexander III. He also heard the song of the Blessed Virgin Mary during a pilgrimage, which to him was overwhelming. Finchale Priory is not only rich in history, but it's a haven for many aspects of natural beauty, always appealing to tourists interested in birdwatching or outdoor pursuits. The walk through the woods and across the meadows is enchanting, with a chance to immerse oneself in natural beauty that poignantly captures a sense of England's rich history and heritage.
Priory ruins with coffee shop and toilet facilities. Nice riverside walk and places for families with children to sit by the river. Only PS4 per car to enter and park.
