explore one of Cumbria's finest medieval monastic sites
Lanercost Priory was founded in 1166 and remained active until its dissolution during the reign of Henry VIII. The priory is notable for its connection to Edward I, who stayed there in 1307 during one of his campaigns against the Scots.
Unfortunately Edward I was too ill to continue his journey and subsequently died at Burgh by Sands on the Solway coast. A monument commemorating Edward I can be found near the priory. Today, Lanercost Priory is a beautiful and peaceful site with much to see within the well preserved Cumbrian monastery. The east end of the impressive 13th-century church survives to its full height, and visitors can admire a number of remarkable monuments within the historic arches. The priory’s walls contain Roman inscriptions, thanks to stonework repurposed from nearby Hadrian’s Wall, and elaborate tombs belonging to various patrons are also found within.
Regarded as one of Cumbria’s best preserved monastic sites, Lanercost Priory offers plenty for visitors to explore. Part of the grand 13th century church is still used today, while the roofless east end stands tall, featuring a dramatic triple tier of arches. Inside, you will find fine burial monuments dedicated to the Dacre family, including the touching Victorian effigy of Elizabeth Dacre Howard, who tragically died at just four months old. The priory’s cloisters, with their beautiful, vaulted ceilings, were transformed by the Dacre family into a Tudor mansion. This area includes the Dacre Tower, which was adapted from the original monastic kitchen, and the Dacre Hall, which features a splendid Jacobean chimneypiece (though it is not always open to visitors).
Completing Lanercost’s unique setting are an ancient vicarage and a ‘Vicar’s Pele tower’, which can be viewed from the exterior. Nearby, a large tearoom, although not managed by English Heritage, is highly recommended for visitors. Lanercost Priory makes an excellent stop for those walking the Hadrian’s Wall trail, offering both history and hospitality.
Image Credit
Photo by Roger Clegg