Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens
Explore the tranquil ruins and Arts & Crafts gardens of England’s best-preserved Carthusian monastery near Northallerton.
Mount Grace Priory, located near Northallerton in North Yorkshire, is the best-preserved Carthusian monastery in England, founded in 1398. The site features evocative medieval ruins, a reconstructed monk’s cell, and 13 acres of Arts and Crafts gardens set amid scenic woodland. The priory’s history spans from its monastic origins through Victorian restoration, offering visitors a tranquil blend of heritage, nature, and craftsmanship.
A brief summary to Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens
- Staddlebridge House, Mount Bank, Northallerton, DL6 3JG, GB
- +441609883494
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.
- Don’t miss the reconstructed monk’s cell and herb garden to understand monastic life.
- Explore the Arts and Crafts style house featuring original William Morris designs.
- Enjoy locally sourced snacks and drinks at the on-site tearoom with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Bring a camera for stunning photo opportunities, especially in autumn when the gardens are vibrant.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Northallerton takes about 15-20 minutes via local roads to the priory. Free parking is available on site, but it can fill during peak times. A small parking fee applies for National Trust members.
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to Northallerton railway station, approximately 6 miles from the priory. From there, a taxi ride of about 15 minutes is recommended due to limited public transport options.
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Bus and Walk
Local bus services run to nearby villages with a subsequent 2-3 km walk on rural paths to the priory. This option requires moderate fitness and suitable footwear.
Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens
A Unique Monastic Heritage in North Yorkshire
Mount Grace Priory stands as the finest preserved Carthusian monastery in England, founded in 1398 by Thomas de Holland, nephew of King Richard II. This religious order was known for its strict asceticism, emphasizing solitude, silence, and prayer. The priory’s layout reflects this with twenty-five individual monk’s cells, each with its own courtyard and garden, enabling a hermitic lifestyle while maintaining connection through a central chapel and communal areas. The ruins evoke the spiritual discipline and architectural ingenuity of the medieval monks who once lived here.From Medieval Ruins to Arts and Crafts Revival
After the priory’s dissolution in 1539, the site passed through various owners until the late 19th century when industrialist Sir Lowthian Bell acquired it. Bell was an enthusiast of the Arts and Crafts movement and undertook significant restoration and extension work around 1900. The house on the site features original William Morris carpets and period furnishings, blending medieval heritage with Victorian artistic revival. Visitors can explore the refurbished drawing room and newly opened attic rooms, which also tell stories of later residents, including explorer Gertrude Bell.Gardens Reflecting Craftsmanship and Nature
Surrounding the priory are 13 acres of beautifully maintained Arts and Crafts gardens, designed under the guidance of award-winning gardener Chris Beardshaw. The gardens include terraces, meadows, a traditional orchard, and a lake, offering a peaceful setting that complements the historic ruins. The gardens are also known for their wildlife, particularly the local stoat population, adding a lively natural dimension to the site’s serene atmosphere.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors can wander the extensive grounds and ruins, gaining insight into the monks’ way of life through the reconstructed monk’s cell and herb garden. The site provides accessible facilities for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility, as well as amenities such as a tearoom, gift shop, and picnic areas. Dogs on leads are welcome, making it a family-friendly destination. The combination of history, nature, and craftsmanship makes Mount Grace Priory a tranquil and enriching day out.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
Mount Grace Priory is open daily from 10am to 5pm during the main season (late March to late October) and has reduced hours in winter months. Entry is free for English Heritage members, with moderate ticket prices for non-members. The site includes free parking, though it can be busy during peak times. Its location near the A19 dual carriageway makes it accessible by car, while public transport options are more limited.Legacy and Cultural Significance
As one of the last monasteries to be dissolved in Yorkshire, Mount Grace Priory offers a rare glimpse into Carthusian monastic life, distinguished by solitude and self-sufficiency. The site’s preservation and restoration reflect a layered history spanning medieval spirituality, Victorian arts, and modern conservation. Today, it stands as a cultural landmark managed by English Heritage and the National Trust, inviting visitors to explore England’s rich religious and artistic heritage amidst tranquil natural surroundings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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Location Audience
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