Llanthony Secunda Priory: A Medieval Heritage Jewel in Gloucester
Explore nearly 900 years of history at Llanthony Secunda Priory, a beautifully restored medieval Augustinian site nestled in tranquil Gloucester grounds.
Llanthony Secunda Priory is a remarkable 12th-century Augustinian priory located just outside Gloucester city walls. Founded in 1136 as a refuge for monks fleeing Welsh attacks, it evolved into one of England’s largest Augustinian houses. Today, its restored medieval buildings and extensive grounds offer visitors a unique glimpse into nearly 900 years of history, with ruins, early brickwork, and tranquil gardens providing a captivating heritage experience.
A brief summary to Llanthony Secunda Priory
- Priory Junction, Gloucester, Gloucester, GL2 5FA, GB
- +441452563499
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the monthly open days (April to September) to access the restored medieval buildings and join guided tours.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal towpath adjacent to the priory grounds for scenic views.
- Check opening hours for the Information Room, open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, to learn more about the priory’s history.
- Consider attending special events or weddings held at the priory to experience its vibrant community role.
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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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus routes 10 or 12 from Gloucester city center to Hempsted Lane, approximately a 15-20 minute journey. From the stop, it is a 10-minute walk along Llanthony Road to the priory entrance. Buses run frequently during the day; single fares cost around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Gloucester Railway Station, then take a 30-minute walk or a short taxi ride (5 minutes) to Llanthony Secunda Priory. The walk follows city streets and is mostly flat but may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
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Car
Drive to Gloucester Quays public car parks, located within a 10-minute walk of the priory. Parking charges apply, typically £1.50 to £3.00 per hour. The priory grounds are pedestrian-only, so expect a short walk from parking to the site.
Llanthony Secunda 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 Llanthony Secunda Priory
Origins and Historical Significance
Llanthony Secunda Priory was established in 1136 by Miles de Gloucester as a secondary refuge for monks from the original Llanthony Priory in the Welsh Marches, who fled persistent attacks. The priory quickly grew in importance, becoming an independent and wealthy Augustinian house owning numerous churches and manors. It played a key role in Gloucester’s religious and social history for over 400 years, hosting notable figures such as King Henry VII. The priory was dissolved in 1538 during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries, after which its lands passed into private hands.Architectural Remains and Restoration
The site features Grade I and II listed buildings, including two main medieval ranges dating from the 15th century that have been carefully restored following a major conservation project completed in 2018. Visitors can explore some of the earliest medieval and Tudor brickwork in Gloucestershire, along with the ruins of a large stone barn and remnants of monastic service buildings. The Victorian farmhouse, cattle pond, and veteran trees enrich the historic landscape, creating a picturesque setting.Visitor Experience and Events
Llanthony Secunda Priory offers a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for cultural events, weddings, and private functions. The grounds are open year-round, inviting visitors to enjoy peaceful walks, picnics, and family activities. The priory buildings open to the public on monthly open days from April to September, featuring guided tours that reveal the site’s fascinating medieval past. An information room is available on weekdays, providing further insights into the priory’s history.Setting and Surroundings
Nestled between the village of Hempsted and Gloucester’s historic docks, the priory’s grounds cover approximately five acres. The site is adjacent to the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal, enhancing the scenic atmosphere and offering unique photographic opportunities. The reimagined medieval courtyard garden features floral displays and herbaceous beds that attract local wildlife, adding to the tranquil environment.Community and Cultural Importance
Llanthony Secunda Priory remains a vital cultural landmark for Gloucester, symbolizing resilience and heritage preservation. Its restoration has revived its role as a community hub, hosting events that celebrate local history and culture. The priory’s story reflects centuries of religious, social, and architectural evolution, making it a significant educational resource and a cherished green space within the city.Accessibility and Amenities
The priory is accessible via footpaths from Llanthony Road and the canal towpath, with good public transport links nearby. Facilities include disabled access, baby changing, and dog-friendly areas. The Clement Café provides takeaway refreshments on open days, and nearby public car parks serve visitors. The site’s combination of historical intrigue and natural beauty makes it a welcoming destination for diverse audiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate viewing chamber
1.0 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
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.
Visit Cotswolds Online
7.5 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
7.5 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
Haresfield Topograph
9.6 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Visit The Cotswolds
13.6 km
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
Walk The Cotswolds
14.0 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Pittville Park
14.1 km
Discover the beauty of Pittville Park in Cheltenham, where lush gardens, serene lakes, and vibrant wildlife invite you to relax and explore.
The Garden at Miserden
14.7 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
15.9 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
16.7 km
Explore the intriguing Woodchester Mansion, a historical gem showcasing Victorian architecture and enchanting landscapes in the heart of Gloucestershire.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
16.9 km
Explore Nympsfield Long Barrow: A serene Neolithic burial site in the Cotswolds, rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Coaley Peak
17.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Coaley Peak, a scenic viewpoint in the Cotswolds, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
17.5 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Dean Heritage Centre
17.6 km
Uncover the rich heritage of the Forest of Dean at the Dean Heritage Centre, where history meets nature in an engaging and family-friendly environment.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Gloucester Docks
0.5 km
Explore Gloucester Docks, a vibrant Victorian waterfront blending rich maritime history, museums, shopping, dining, and scenic canal views.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
0.6 km
Explore over 300 years of Gloucestershire military heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories at Gloucester’s historic Docks museum.
Blackfriars Priory
0.7 km
Explore one of England’s finest medieval Dominican priories, blending rich history, stunning timber architecture, and vibrant modern events in Gloucester.
Robert Raikes's House
0.8 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.
Greyfriars
0.8 km
Explore Greyfriars in Gloucester, a historical landmark that showcases stunning architecture and rich heritage, perfect for all history lovers.
Folk of Gloucester
0.9 km
Step into Gloucester’s living history at The Folk, a vibrant Tudor museum and community hub celebrating local heritage and culture.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
0.9 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and community hub in Gloucester’s city centre, blending unique shops, local market charm, and welcoming amenities.
Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
0.9 km
Discover handmade treasures and creative workshops in the heart of Gloucester, where local artists showcase their craft in a welcoming city-centre space.
Museum Of Gloucester
1.0 km
Explore Gloucester’s rich Roman heritage, Victorian charm, and vibrant community spirit at the Museum of Gloucester.
Cathedral Quarter Gloucester
1.0 km
Explore Gloucester’s historic Cathedral Quarter, where ancient streets meet vibrant culture and timeless heritage.
Gloucester Antiques Centre
1.0 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
1.0 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.
Gloucester Cathedral
1.1 km
Explore Gloucester Cathedral’s 1,300 years of history, stunning architecture, royal tombs, and iconic cloisters in the heart of Gloucester.
Alney Island Nature Reserve
1.1 km
An 80-hectare wetland haven on the River Severn, blending rich wildlife, historic bridges, and spectacular Severn Bore views near Gloucester city centre.
Essential places to dine
Côte Gloucester
0.3 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
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.
The Barge
0.4 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Greek on the Docks
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
The Tall Ship
0.5 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Settebello Trattoria
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Aroma
0.7 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Topoly's
0.8 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
0.9 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
1.0 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
1.0 km
Cozy, friendly café in Gloucester offering delicious breakfast and lunch with gluten-free and vegan options near the cathedral.
The March Hare
1.1 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Sebz
1.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Nepalese Chef
1.5 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
The Lock Keepers
1.9 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
Gift Company
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
0.4 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Upstairs Downstairs
0.5 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Chez Rose
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
L&S Lifestyle
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Pilgrims Gloucester
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
King's Walk
1.0 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Westgate Retail Park
1.0 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Cotswold Creates
6.1 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Adana Collective Antiques
12.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Willow Hilson Vintage
12.2 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Great British Boutique
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Vinegar Hill
13.0 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Moonflower Too
13.0 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
TANK
0.3 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.
Our House Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Café René
0.8 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
The Drunken Duck
0.9 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
0.9 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
0.9 km
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
1.1 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
Avenue
1.1 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Gloucester serving classic fare and drinks in a welcoming Victorian setting with a vibrant community spirit.
The Abbey
1.2 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
The Turks Head Inn
1.2 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
1.2 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
1.3 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
Deans Walk Inn
1.4 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
One Eyed Jacks
1.4 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
