Finchale Priory
Overview
On the banks of the River Wear, are the extensive remains of Finchale Priory. It was founded in 1196 on the site of the hermitage of St Godric, a retired sailor and merchant, who settled here after a life of adventure and travel. The priory was an outpost of Durham Cathedral and functioned as a holiday retreat for the monks of Durham until its suppression in 1538. The story of Finchale can be read in its surviving remains, from St Godric's original church and tomb through to the 13th-century priory and its later rebuilding.
Features
- Opening Times
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year, daily 10-5. Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan
- Facilities
- Parking onsite
- Cafe
About the area
County Durham reaches halfway across England, from the North Pennines in the west, to the sea in the east. Much of it is very sparsely inhabited, and is naturally beautiful; a mix of rolling hills, monumental valleys, lush farmland and unforgiving moors.
Places to eat nearby View all
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Self-Catering
Finchale Abbey Apartment
★★★★
"Located next to the river Wear, in the ground of the abbey ruins..."
- Washing machine
- Linens provided
Self-Catering
Finchale Abbey Apartment
★★★★
"Located next to the river Wear, in the ground of the abbey ruins..."
- Total units: 1
- Washing machine
- Linens provided
Caravan & Camping
Finchale Abbey Caravan Park
★★★★
"Family-run site beside atmospheric abbey ruins in peaceful Northumberland...."
Nearby places to stay
Finchale Abbey Apartment
The Apartment is a perfect getaway with outstanding views of the priory, ancient woodland steeped hills and the river that meanders around the property. Occupying the first floor of the...
★★★★ Rating
Finchale Abbey Apartment
The Apartment is a perfect getaway with outstanding views of the priory, ancient woodland steeped hills and the river that meanders around the property. Occupying the first floor of the...
★★★★ Rating
Finchale Abbey Caravan Park
An adult only touring park in the heart of the beautiful County Durham countryside. Close to the historic city of Durham, it is set within a meander of the River Wear in the shadow of a...
★★★★ Rating
Ramside Hall Hotel Golf & Spa
With its proximity to the A1(M) and delightful parkland setting, Ramside Hall combines the best of both worlds – convenience and tranquillity. The hotel boasts two championship golf cou...
★★★★ Rating
Harry's House
Harry's House Durham offers quirky pet-friendly accommodation ideally situated near the A1 interchange in Durham. On offer is a comfortable space with lounge diner, galley-style kitchen...
★★★ Rating
Harry's House Durham
Harry's House Durham offers quirky pet-friendly accommodation ideally situated near the A1 interchange in Durham. On offer is a comfortable space with lounge diner, galley-style kitchen...
★★★ Rating
Dove Cottage
Dove Cottage is a detached cottage suitable for two people situated in Sherburn Village, 3 miles east of Durham City. It is well equipped and provides a good base for exploring Durham C...
★★★★ Rating
Dove Cottage
Dove Cottage is a detached cottage suitable for two people situated in Sherburn Village, 3 miles east of Durham City. It is well equipped and provides a good base for exploring Durham C...
★★★★ Rating


