Finchale Priory
The ruins of a 13th-century Benedictine priory on a bend of the River Wear. It grew out of the riverside hermitage of St Godric.
The priory began as a 12th-century hermitage on the riverbank, where the hermit St Godric lived and prayed. In the 13th century it became a cell of Durham Cathedral Priory, a retreat where monks could rest, and it fell into decline after the Reformation. Today the surviving church walls, cloisters and prior's lodging remain. English Heritage manages the site, and it is open to visitors free of charge. A path on the opposite bank connects to the Prince Bishops Trail, and walking along the river here is very scenic. The priory lies about 5 km north of Durham, a 15-minute drive away, and parking is paid.
Opening hours
Open all day (daytime)
Nearby sights
- Crook Hall & Gardens
- River Wear Cruises & Rowing Boats
- Durham Market Place
- Palace Green Library
- Durham Cathedral & Castle
- River Wear Riverbanks & Prebends Bridge
- Durham University Botanic Garden
- Oriental Museum