Finchale Priory: Tranquil Ruins by the River Wear
Explore the serene 13th-century ruins of Finchale Priory, a riverside medieval retreat steeped in history and surrounded by tranquil woodlands.
Set on a bend of the River Wear near Durham, Finchale Priory is the atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century monastic retreat founded on the hermitage of St Godric. Managed by English Heritage, this free-to-enter site offers a peaceful blend of medieval history, scenic woodland walks, and picnic spots, perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and dog walkers alike.
A brief summary to Finchale Priory
- Finchale Ave, Durham, Framwellgate Moor, Durham, DH1 5SH, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as some paths and ruins can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the River Wear or within the priory grounds for a peaceful outdoor meal.
- Visit the dog-friendly café near the priory for refreshments and homemade snacks.
- Check for any conservation-related access restrictions before your visit, as some areas may be closed for safety.
- Explore the surrounding woodland trails for additional scenic walks and wildlife spotting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Durham city center to Finchale Priory takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Parking is available on-site for £4, managed by a neighboring caravan park with a maximum stay of 2 hours. Alternative free parking can be found on nearby Cockton Road.
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Bus
Local bus services from Durham city run regularly to Framwellgate Moor, about 2 km from Finchale Priory. From the bus stop, a 25-30 minute walk along well-marked woodland paths leads to the priory. Check local timetables for current schedules and accessibility.
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Walking
For those nearby or staying in Framwellgate Moor, a scenic 30-minute walk through Cocken Woods provides a pleasant route to Finchale Priory. Paths are generally well-maintained but can be uneven and muddy, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Finchale Priory location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Finchale Priory
Origins Rooted in Solitude and Spirituality
Finchale Priory traces its origins to 1196, built upon the site of St Godric's hermitage. St Godric, once a sailor with a colorful past, settled here seeking a life of religious devotion. The priory later became an outpost of Durham Cathedral, serving as a holiday retreat for monks. Its ruins today tell the layered story of medieval monastic life, from St Godric’s original church and tomb to the 13th-century priory structures and later rebuilds.Architectural Remains and Natural Setting
The extensive stone ruins are nestled within a wooded riverside landscape, creating a serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the priory’s chapel, cloisters, and living quarters, with some areas allowing climbing or passage underneath for a more immersive experience. The site’s riverside location offers tranquil views and a peaceful backdrop for reflection or photography.A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Families
Beyond the ruins, well-maintained woodland paths invite leisurely walks and dog-friendly outings. The grounds provide ample picnic areas beside the river, making it a favored spot for families and visitors seeking a quiet escape. Nearby, a dog-friendly café offers refreshments, enhancing the relaxed day-out vibe.Conservation and Visitor Experience
Managed by English Heritage, Finchale Priory is free to enter, though parking is charged separately by a neighboring caravan park. Conservation efforts are ongoing, with some areas occasionally restricted for safety. Informative boards around the site help visitors understand the priory’s history and significance, enriching the experience despite the absence of permanent staff.Connection to Regional Heritage
The priory’s location near Durham links it to a rich ecclesiastical tradition, including Durham Cathedral and the nearby Lindisfarne Priory, which inspired St Godric’s spiritual path. Finchale also features on the Camino Ingles pilgrimage route, with a stamp available at the adjacent tea room, connecting it to wider European religious heritage.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
Open daily from 10am to 5pm during spring and summer, and 10am to 4pm in winter, Finchale Priory welcomes visitors year-round except on major holidays. The site’s uneven terrain and occasional mud require sturdy footwear. Facilities include toilets and a café, supporting comfortable visits. The priory’s peaceful ambience makes it a rewarding destination in all seasons, offering a blend of history, nature, and quiet contemplation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Band Stand
5.0 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Obelisk
5.0 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Durham Town Hall
5.1 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
5.1 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
5.2 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Framwellgate Bridge
5.3 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham Viaduct
5.3 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Maiden's Bower
5.4 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Durham
5.6 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
5.6 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Kathedra
5.7 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Ludworth Tower
8.3 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
17.2 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Quayside
17.2 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Guildhall
17.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Adventure Valley
1.2 km
Explore over 50 family-friendly attractions, indoor play zones, and farmyard fun at the North East’s largest adventure park in Durham.
Wood Art Sculpture
2.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and intricate craftsmanship of wooden sculptures in Great Lumley’s unique outdoor art gallery.
City of Durham
3.3 km
A UNESCO World Heritage city where a mighty Norman cathedral and medieval castle crown a dramatic river peninsula, blending ancient history with vibrant university life.
The Scrambles Nature Reserve
4.0 km
A peaceful woodland reserve in Durham featuring historic railway bridges and rich local wildlife, perfect for tranquil nature walks.
Aykley Wood Nature Reserve
4.1 km
Tranquil ancient woodland near Durham offering scenic city views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails year-round.
Riverside Park
4.2 km
A vibrant riverside park blending historic charm with family-friendly play, gardens, and scenic walks in Chester-le-Street.
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
4.6 km
Explore Durham’s historic Crook Hall Gardens, a tranquil National Trust haven blending medieval heritage with stunning gardens and city views.
Durham Heritage Coast
4.6 km
Explore dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, and rich heritage along England’s stunning Durham Heritage Coast.
Elba Park
4.6 km
Discover Elba Park’s serene trails, wildlife lake, and captivating sculptures—a peaceful green haven in Houghton le Spring.
Dragon Park
4.7 km
Experience the beauty of Dragon Park in Durham, where nature, tranquility, and community come together in a stunning urban oasis.
The Jubilee Walk
4.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of The Jubilee Walk in Aykley Heads, Durham, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
The Durham Cow
5.0 km
Step into Durham’s oldest pub, The Dun Cow, where Tudor charm and legendary tales blend with excellent ales in a cozy historic setting.
Wharton Park
5.0 km
Hilltop sanctuary with cathedral views, playgrounds, and cultural events—Durham's beloved green escape.
Elvet Waterside
5.0 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
Indoor Market
5.1 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Essential places to dine
The Rib Room
3.0 km
Award-winning steakhouse serving 32-day matured Durham beef in an elegant countryside setting.
Fusion Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience refined Asian fusion dining with a Thai twist at Fusion Restaurant, nestled in the luxurious Ramside Hall Hotel’s scenic Durham estate.
La Spada Ristorante
3.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at La Spada Ristorante in Durham’s Pity Me.
Broomside park Beefeater
3.5 km
Durham’s go-to grill and pub for hearty British classics, family-friendly dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bistro 1819
4.3 km
Training restaurant serving fresh British cuisine with local ingredients and genuine hospitality.
Little Sicily
4.6 km
Authentic Sicilian Italian restaurant in Durham offering fresh, affordable dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Bistro Italiano
4.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
The Cartologist
4.9 km
A vibrant Durham restaurant and hotel blending local cuisine, bespoke cocktails, and cozy comfort in a charming city setting.
Collage Restaurant
4.9 km
A modern, relaxed hotel restaurant in Durham serving hearty British breakfasts and classic dinner dishes in a bright, contemporary setting.
Tia’s
4.9 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
5.0 km
Authentic Brazilian Churrasco with tableside carving, jungle-inspired ambience, and award-winning service in Durham city centre.
ASK Italian
5.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in Durham’s vibrant city centre, featuring vegan options and local Durham Gin.
Spice Lounge
5.1 km
Award-winning Indian cuisine with authentic homestyle curries in Durham’s charming Market Place.
Turtle Bay Durham
5.1 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Pizza Punks Durham
5.1 km
Unleash your creativity with unlimited toppings on award-winning sourdough pizzas in a vibrant riverside setting at Pizza Punks Durham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arnison Centre
2.8 km
A comprehensive shopping destination north of Durham city centre, blending major retailers, dining, and easy access in a modern retail park.
The Works
2.9 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in a bright, easy-to-navigate store at Arnison Retail Park, perfect for families, students, and gift shoppers.
The Ultimate Ladies Boutique
4.3 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at The Ultimate Ladies Boutique, a stylish gem in Durham's Dragonville Industrial Park.
The Range, Durham
4.4 km
Durham’s all-in-one home and lifestyle store offering furniture, garden, art supplies, and more under one roof with convenient extended hours.
TJ Hughes
5.1 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Gateway World Shop
5.1 km
A charming craft shop in Durham’s historic gateway, offering fair trade pottery, jewellery, textiles, and handmade gifts from around the world.
Prince Bishops Place
5.1 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Discovering Durham CIC
5.1 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
The Record Shed Durham
5.1 km
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
Elvet & Bailey
5.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
WHSmith
5.1 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
BEAR BOTTOM
5.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Oxfam Shop
5.1 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
5.1 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
The Boathouse
5.1 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Woodman Inn - Durham
4.7 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
4.9 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Champagne Bar
5.0 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
The Drunken Duck
5.0 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dun Cow Durham
5.1 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
5.1 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
5.1 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Blue Eye
5.2 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
5.2 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Osbournes
5.2 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Shakespeare
5.2 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Library
5.2 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Station House
5.2 km
Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
The Three Bridges
5.2 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Toms Gin Bar
5.3 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bohemia Durham
5.0 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Jimmy Allens
5.2 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
5.2 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Fabio's Bar
5.2 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Loft Durham
5.3 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
13.7 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
17.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
17.4 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
TheCUT Newcastle
17.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
17.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
Powerhouse
17.5 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
The Social Club
17.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
17.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
17.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
17.6 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly