Blackfriars Priory: Gloucester’s Medieval Dominican Treasure
Explore one of England’s finest medieval Dominican priories, blending rich history, stunning timber architecture, and vibrant modern events in Gloucester.
Blackfriars Priory in Gloucester is one of England’s most complete surviving medieval Dominican friaries, founded around 1239. Renowned for its magnificent 13th-century timber roof, cloister, and the oldest surviving medieval library, it blends rich history with modern uses as a public heritage site, event venue, and wedding location. Open Sundays for free visits, this historic landmark offers a unique glimpse into monastic life and Tudor transformation.
A brief summary to Blackfriars Priory
- Blackfriars Priory, Ladybellegate St, Gloucester, GL1 2HN, GB
- +441452396384
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Sundays from April to October for free public access and guided tours.
- Book ahead for special events, weddings, or guided group tours to secure your place.
- Take time to explore the cloister garden and the medieval library with its original timber roof.
- Check the Gloucester History Festival schedule for extended opening hours and special programs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Gloucester’s city bus services to the Southgate Street or Ladybellegate Street stops, approximately a 5-10 minute walk from Blackfriars Priory. Bus fares range from £1.50 to £3.00 depending on route and ticket type.
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Train
Gloucester Railway Station is about 1.5 km away, a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride costing around £5. Frequent train services connect Gloucester with major cities including Birmingham and Bristol.
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Car
Use nearby Blackfriar/Ladybellegate Street car park for convenient parking. Charges apply, typically £2-£5 for a few hours. Note the city centre location may have limited parking during peak times.
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Walking
Located in Gloucester city centre, Blackfriars Priory is easily accessible on foot from the main shopping and historic areas. Walking routes are flat and suitable for most visitors.
Blackfriars 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 Blackfriars Priory
Founding and Medieval Flourishing of Blackfriars Priory
Established circa 1239 on the site of Gloucester’s Norman castle outer bailey, Blackfriars Priory was a Dominican friary built over approximately 30 years. Supported by royal patronage from Henry III and Edward I, the priory grew into a thriving religious community housing up to 40 friars. The complex featured a church consecrated in 1284, cloisters, a scriptorium, study cells, and a magnificent scissor-braced oak roof over the library, considered the oldest purpose-built library in the country. The priory’s precinct expanded to nearly 3 acres, bordered by town walls and streets, reflecting its importance in medieval Gloucester.Transformation through Tudor Ownership and Industrial Use
Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1538, the priory was sold to Alderman Thomas Bell, a wealthy Gloucester merchant. Bell converted the church into a Tudor mansion known as Bell’s Place, shortening the church’s nave and inserting upper floors. The site was adapted for use as a clothier’s factory and later subdivided into homes and industrial premises, including a printer’s works and bottling factory. Despite these changes, significant medieval fabric survived, including the timber roof and cloister structures.Architectural Highlights and Preservation
The priory’s most striking feature is its 13th-century timber roof, a rare surviving example of medieval craftsmanship. The cloister remains intact, enclosing a peaceful courtyard garden. The scriptorium and friars’ study cells offer insight into monastic scholarship and preaching missions. Restoration efforts by the Ministry of Works in the mid-20th century preserved the site, making it one of only three relatively intact Dominican friaries in England. Today, the site retains a blend of medieval, Tudor, and 19th-century architectural elements.Modern Use as a Heritage and Event Venue
Now managed by Gloucester City Council and leased as an events venue, Blackfriars Priory hosts weddings, conferences, parties, and the annual Gloucester History Festival. Its historic ambiance combined with contemporary enhancements, such as a glass wall overlooking the ruins, creates a unique setting for celebrations and public events. The priory is open to visitors on Sundays from April to October, offering free entry and guided tours that illuminate its rich history and architectural significance.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Blackfriars Priory can explore the tranquil cloister garden, admire the soaring timber roof, and reflect on centuries of religious and civic history. The site’s atmosphere evokes the contemplative life of Dominican friars alongside the dynamic changes brought by Tudor and industrial eras. Its central city location and accessible facilities make it a welcoming cultural landmark, blending heritage with vibrant community use.Significance within Gloucester and Beyond
Blackfriars Priory stands as a testament to Gloucester’s medieval religious heritage and the adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Its survival through dissolution, industrial transformation, and modern restoration highlights the layered history of English monastic sites. As a multi-award-winning venue and protected monument, it continues to enrich Gloucester’s cultural landscape and offers a rare window into the Dominican order’s legacy in Britain.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate viewing chamber
0.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Visit Cotswolds Online
7.0 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
7.0 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
7.1 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Haresfield Topograph
10.0 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Sim's Clock
13.5 km
Historic Sim's Clock stands as a timeless symbol in Stroud’s vibrant George Street, blending heritage with community spirit.
May Hill
13.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of May Hill, a mountain peak in Longhope offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature.
Visit The Cotswolds
14.3 km
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
Walk The Cotswolds
14.4 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
The Garden at Miserden
14.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Tewkesbury Abbey
15.2 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
16.8 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
16.8 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
17.2 km
Explore the intriguing Woodchester Mansion, a historical gem showcasing Victorian architecture and enchanting landscapes in the heart of Gloucestershire.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
17.5 km
Explore Nympsfield Long Barrow: A serene Neolithic burial site in the Cotswolds, rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Robert Raikes's House
0.1 km
Step into history at Robert Raikes's House, a beautifully restored 16th-century merchant’s home turned charming pub in the heart of Gloucester.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
0.1 km
Explore over 300 years of Gloucestershire military heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories at Gloucester’s historic Docks museum.
Greyfriars
0.2 km
Explore Greyfriars in Gloucester, a historical landmark that showcases stunning architecture and rich heritage, perfect for all history lovers.
Gloucester Docks
0.2 km
Explore Gloucester Docks, a vibrant Victorian waterfront blending rich maritime history, museums, shopping, dining, and scenic canal views.
Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
0.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and creative workshops in the heart of Gloucester, where local artists showcase their craft in a welcoming city-centre space.
Cathedral Quarter Gloucester
0.2 km
Explore Gloucester’s historic Cathedral Quarter, where ancient streets meet vibrant culture and timeless heritage.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and community hub in Gloucester’s city centre, blending unique shops, local market charm, and welcoming amenities.
Gloucester Antiques Centre
0.2 km
Explore three floors of antiques and collectibles in Gloucester’s historic Old Judges House, featuring over 40 specialist dealers and a vast range of treasures.
The House Of The Tailor Of Gloucester
0.3 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world at the House of The Tailor of Gloucester, where story and history come alive in a charming museum and shop.
Museum Of Gloucester
0.3 km
Explore Gloucester’s rich Roman heritage, Victorian charm, and vibrant community spirit at the Museum of Gloucester.
Folk of Gloucester
0.3 km
Step into Gloucester’s living history at The Folk, a vibrant Tudor museum and community hub celebrating local heritage and culture.
Gloucester Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore Gloucester Cathedral’s 1,300 years of history, stunning architecture, royal tombs, and iconic cloisters in the heart of Gloucester.
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
0.4 km
Explore 200 years of Britain's waterways heritage with historic vessels, hands-on exhibits, and canal cruises at Gloucester Docks.
St Oswald's Priory
0.6 km
Explore Gloucester’s oldest surviving Saxon monument, where royal history and medieval ruins tell tales of faith and power.
Gloucestershire Revealed
0.7 km
Discover Gloucestershire’s rich heritage through archives, exhibitions, and family history at the Gloucestershire Heritage Hub in Gloucester.
Essential places to dine
Topoly's
0.1 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Aroma
0.1 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
Settebello Trattoria
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Greek on the Docks
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
0.3 km
Gloucester’s premier gluten-free Thai restaurant blending authentic flavors with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy city-center setting.
Comfy Pew Cafe Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy, friendly café in Gloucester offering delicious breakfast and lunch with gluten-free and vegan options near the cathedral.
The Tall Ship
0.3 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Barge
0.3 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
The March Hare
0.3 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
0.4 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
Côte Gloucester
0.5 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
Sebz
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Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Nepalese Chef
0.8 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
The Lock Keepers
1.8 km
A serene riverside restaurant and hotel near Gloucester, offering seasonal dishes, warm service, and cozy accommodation in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pilgrims Gloucester
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Upstairs Downstairs
0.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
King's Walk
0.4 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Chez Rose
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Gift Company
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
0.6 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Westgate Retail Park
0.6 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Cotswold Creates
5.8 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Willow Hilson Vintage
11.6 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Great British Boutique
11.9 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
11.9 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Vinegar Hill
12.3 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Adana Collective Antiques
12.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Moonflower Too
13.4 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Our House Bar
0.1 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Café René
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A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
The Drunken Duck
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A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
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Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
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Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Elbien Soe Bar
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Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
The Abbey
0.4 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
The Turks Head Inn
0.4 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
TANK
0.4 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
0.5 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Deans Walk Inn
0.7 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
The Heritage
0.8 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
0.8 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
One Eyed Jacks
0.9 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly