Hulne Priory: England’s Earliest Carmelite Friary Amidst Historic Hulne Park
Explore Hulne Priory, England’s earliest Carmelite friary nestled in scenic Hulne Park, rich with medieval ruins, history, and cinematic charm.
Hulne Priory, founded in 1240 near Alnwick, Northumberland, is the earliest and best-preserved Carmelite friary in England. Set within the expansive, walled Hulne Park, the priory’s atmospheric ruins include a defensive pele tower and stone friar statues. The site, rich in medieval history and cinematic fame, offers tranquil exploration in a natural parkland setting with Gothic Revival features nearby.
A brief summary to Hulne Priory
- Alnwick, Denwick, GB
- +441665603183
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes as the priory is accessed via pedestrian paths through Hulne Park’s natural terrain.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy near the ruins, especially if taking the longer walking loop around Hulne Park.
- Visit Brizlee Tower nearby for stunning Gothic Revival architecture and panoramic views of the park.
- Look out for the stone statues of friars guarding the priory ruins, carved in the 18th century.
- Check for occasional live performances or wedding ceremonies that may add a special atmosphere to your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Arriva North East bus service from Alnwick town center to Denwick, which runs approximately every hour. From Denwick, it is a 20-minute walk on footpaths to Hulne Priory. The bus fare typically ranges from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Alnwick town center to Hulne Park entrance near Denwick takes about 10–15 minutes. Note that parking is limited and the park is pedestrian-only beyond the entrance. Parking fees may apply at nearby public car parks, typically £2–£4 per day.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 4 km (approximately 1 hour) walk from Alnwick Castle to Hulne Priory through Hulne Park offers a peaceful route across varied terrain, including woodland and open grassland. The paths are well maintained but may be uneven in places.
Hulne 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Hulne Priory
Origins and Religious Heritage of Hulne Priory
Founded in 1240 by the Carmelite order, also known as the Whitefriars, Hulne Priory is widely regarded as the earliest Carmelite friary in England. The friary was established by William II de Vesci, who helped bring the Carmelites from the Crusader states to Northumberland. The site was chosen for its resemblance to Mount Carmel, the order’s original home. The priory served as a religious center for the Carmelite brothers, dedicated to worship and community service, until its dissolution in 1539 during the Reformation.Architectural and Defensive Features
Unlike many monastic sites, Hulne Priory was fortified due to its proximity to the often-volatile Anglo-Scottish border. It is surrounded by a defensive wall and includes a pele tower built in the 15th century to protect against raids. The ruins feature stone statues of friars carved in the 18th century, which stand as silent sentinels over the cloister remains. Though much of the church and monastic buildings were demolished or fell to ruin after the Dissolution, the surviving structures offer a vivid glimpse into medieval monastic life and borderland defense.The Priory Within Hulne Park’s Expansive Grounds
Hulne Priory lies within Hulne Park, a large, walled parkland owned by the Duke of Northumberland. Originally a hunting park, it still serves as a shooting estate and includes woods, moors, open grasslands, and farmland. The park is pedestrian-only and not heavily commercialized, providing a peaceful natural environment for visitors. Nearby within the park are architectural gems such as Brizlee Tower, a Gothic Revival viewing tower from the 1780s, and the gatehouse of the former Alnwick Abbey.Cultural Significance and Modern Use
Beyond its historical and architectural importance, Hulne Priory has cultural resonance through its use as a filming location. It appeared as Kirklees Abbey in the TV series "Robin of Sherwood" and as Maid Marian’s home in the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." The priory is licensed for wedding ceremonies and occasionally hosts live performances, blending its medieval ambiance with contemporary cultural life.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Attractions
Visitors to Hulne Priory can explore the evocative ruins and enjoy the tranquil park setting. The site is ideal for picnics, walking, and photography, especially with the atmospheric stone friar statues and the surrounding natural beauty. The nearby Brizlee Tower offers spectacular Gothic Revival architecture and panoramic views of the park. While there are no dedicated visitor facilities, the priory's serene environment and rich history make it a rewarding destination for those interested in medieval heritage and peaceful countryside walks.Historical Discoveries and Preservation
Excavations at Hulne Priory have revealed significant artifacts, including an Anglo-Saxon cross-shaft now housed in Alnwick Castle Museum, underscoring the site's long-standing historical importance. Despite centuries of change, Hulne Priory remains one of the best-preserved Carmelite sites in England, protected as a Grade I listed historic monument. Its preservation within the Duke of Northumberland’s estate ensures that this remarkable medieval landmark endures for future generations to explore and appreciate.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- 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
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
- Solo Female Friendly
