Hulne Priory Alnwick - Ruined archway frames the view of the field.
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Hulne Priory Alnwick

4.6
·491k reviews·Denwick, United Kingdom

Explore the atmospheric ruins of England's first Carmelite priory, set within the picturesque Hulne Park. A historical gem with cinematic connections.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Hulne Priory Alnwick - Ruined archway frames the view of the field.

Hulne Priory Alnwick

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the atmospheric ruins of England's first Carmelite priory, set within the picturesque Hulne Park. A historical gem with cinematic connections.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly atmospheric and beautiful place, steeped in history and perfect for a peaceful wander."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The grounds are uneven; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the ruins and park.

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

Bring your camera for stunning shots of the ruins and surrounding natural beauty.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Carmelite Priory Ruins

Carmelite Priory Ruins

Hulne Park

Explore the atmospheric remains of England's first Carmelite priory, founded in 1240.

Instagram
18th-Century Sculptures

18th-Century Sculptures

Within the Priory grounds

Discover scattered sculptures of praying monks, adding a unique artistic layer to the historical site.

Instagram
Hulne Park Scenery

Hulne Park Scenery

Surrounding the Priory

Wander through the picturesque Hulne Park, once a vital resource for Alnwick Castle's Percy family.

Instagram
Robin Hood Filming Location

Robin Hood Filming Location

Priory Walls

See the spot where scenes from 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' were filmed, adding a touch of movie magic.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ruins

Hulne Priory is a stunning medieval ruin set within a beautiful park. While parts are intact, expect atmospheric remnants rather than a fully preserved structure. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds and consider the weather, as much of the experience is outdoors. Instagram

Plan Your Visit

Check opening times and any potential event closures before you go. The priory is part of Hulne Park, which may have specific access rules. Parking is available, but arrive early during peak season to secure a spot. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10.5 hours later… #fy #fyp #books #BookTok #bookish #theprioryoftheorangetree #NightDoneRight #readwithme #readingvlog
@kaitlin.tracy
1M likes • 5.1M views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The grounds are uneven; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the ruins and park. Reddit

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

Bring your camera for stunning shots of the ruins and surrounding natural beauty. Instagram

You’ve all been bamboozled! 🍊This is, however, PURELY commenting on length. It’s usually going to be easier/faster to read a YA book or urban fantasy romance than it is to read an adult epic high fantasy of the same length. 📚 #PrioryOfTheOrangeTree #theprioryoftheorangetree #samanthashannon #adayoffallennight #adofn #longbooks #fantasybooks #booksilove #tbr #toberead #sarahjmaas #throneofglass #c...
@emmaskies
96.3K likes • 830K views
Hulne Park is the only one remaining of the three parks that once surrounded Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, providing wood and meat for the Percy family, the Dukes of Northumberland. A cave called the Nine Year Aud Hole is found within the park; its entrance is guarded by a Grade-II-listed, probably 18th-century, statue of a White Friar (The Hermit) #hulnepark #thehermit #northumberland #discov...
ournorthumberlandandbeyond
1.2K likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking Availability

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly. Reddit

📚 Bookish Connection

Fans of 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' might find a unique connection to the name. TikTok+1

Keeping watch over Hulne priory. Hulne Priory was founded in 1240 by Carmelite monks, making it perhaps the first Carmelite priory in England. The priory was destroyed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII, but considerable parts of the monastic buildings remain intact. Among the remains are scattered 18th-century sculptures of monks praying. One of the unusual features at Hulne ...
ournorthumberlandandbeyond
980 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The grounds are uneven; sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the ruins and park. Reddit

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

Bring your camera for stunning shots of the ruins and surrounding natural beauty. Instagram

🚗 Parking Availability

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly. Reddit

📚 Bookish Connection

Fans of 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' might find a unique connection to the name. TikTok+1

🎬 Film Buff's Delight

Spot filming locations from 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' for a cinematic twist. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Hulne Priory for its atmospheric ruins and beautiful park setting, offering a peaceful escape with historical intrigue. The connection to 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' is a fun bonus. Some note the lack of facilities and the need for comfortable footwear due to the uneven terrain.

What People Like

Atmospheric ruins
Beautiful park setting
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Uneven terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hulne Priory is located within Hulne Park, a short drive or a pleasant walk from Alnwick town center. Many visitors drive and park within the park. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available within Hulne Park. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons, as it can get busy. Reddit

Yes, it's a scenic walk from Alnwick to Hulne Priory, taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on your pace. The route is generally well-signposted. Reddit

While direct public transport to the priory itself is limited, you can take buses to Alnwick and then walk or arrange local transport. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the Alnwick area. Reddit

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Hulne Priory, allowing you to park close by. Walking from Alnwick is also a popular and enjoyable option for those who prefer to stretch their legs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Hulne Priory and Hulne Park is generally free, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific event charges or seasonal access changes before your visit. Reddit

Hulne Priory is typically accessible during daylight hours as part of Hulne Park. However, specific access might be restricted during private events or for maintenance. It's best to verify current hours online or with local authorities. Reddit

Hulne Park and the priory ruins are generally accessible year-round, but weather conditions can affect access, especially during winter. Always check for any advisories before planning your trip. Reddit

While official guided tours may not be consistently available, local historical societies or special event organizers sometimes offer them. Keep an eye on local event listings. Reddit

Dogs are generally welcome in Hulne Park, but they must be kept on a lead, especially around the priory ruins and wildlife. Always check park regulations for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the atmospheric medieval ruins of the Carmelite priory, discover 18th-century monk sculptures, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Hulne Park. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Hulne Park offers lovely walking trails around the priory, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike. Reddit

Facilities are minimal, as it's a historical ruin in a park setting. There are no cafes or restrooms directly at the priory, so come prepared. Reddit

Yes, the atmospheric ruins, sculptures, and surrounding parkland make Hulne Priory a fantastic location for photography enthusiasts. Instagram

Founded in 1240, it was the first Carmelite priory in England and was later dissolved by Henry VIII. It's also a filming location for 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves'. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the atmospheric ruins. Overcast days can also enhance the moody feel. Instagram

Focus on the architectural details of the ruins, the unique monk sculptures, and the expansive parkland views. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scale. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in historical sites and parks to protect wildlife and preserve the atmosphere. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good lens (e.g., a 24-70mm equivalent) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes, and a tripod can help with low-light shots. Instagram

The main priory structure, the scattered sculptures, and viewpoints overlooking the park are popular. The walls where 'Robin Hood' was filmed also offer unique shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hulne Priory offers a fantastic opportunity for families to explore history in an engaging, open-air setting. The ruins provide a sense of adventure, sparking imagination about medieval life. Encourage kids to imagine the monks who lived there or to look for the unique sculptures. Instagram

Make the visit a mini-adventure by exploring Hulne Park. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings, and let the children run around in the open spaces. The 'Robin Hood' filming connection can also be a fun talking point to make history more relatable. Instagram Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as the terrain can be uneven. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Photographers

For history enthusiasts, Hulne Priory is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and monastic history. Delve into its origins as England's first Carmelite priory and its dissolution. The 18th-century sculptures add a unique artistic dimension to the historical narrative. Instagram+1

Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the atmospheric ruins, especially during the golden hours. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones, combined with the natural beauty of Hulne Park, creates stunning visual compositions. Don't miss the chance to frame shots that evoke the priory's storied past or its cinematic moments. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Hulne Priory, established in 1240 by Carmelite monks, holds the distinction of being the first Carmelite priory in England. For centuries, it served as a spiritual center before its dissolution under Henry VIII. The priory's strategic location within Hulne Park, which historically supplied Alnwick Castle, underscores its significance in the region's past. Instagram

The surviving structures offer a tangible connection to medieval monastic life. Visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins, imagining the daily routines of the monks. Adding to the site's intrigue are the scattered 18th-century sculptures of praying monks, a later artistic addition that complements the ancient stonework. Instagram

Beyond its religious and architectural importance, Hulne Priory has also played a role in popular culture. Its dramatic setting was famously used as a filming location for the 1991 movie 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,' starring Kevin Costner. This cinematic connection adds another layer of appeal for visitors. Instagram

Exploring Hulne Park

Hulne Priory is nestled within the expansive and beautiful Hulne Park, a historic landscape that once provided essential resources for the Percy family, the Dukes of Northumberland. The park itself is a significant attraction, offering a tranquil escape and opportunities for exploration. Instagram

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or more energetic hikes through the park's varied terrain. The grounds are known for their natural beauty, with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. The park's historical connection to Alnwick Castle adds to its charm, making it a perfect complement to a visit to the priory ruins. Reddit

Within the park, keep an eye out for unique features like the 'Nine Year Aud Hole' cave, guarded by an 18th-century statue of a White Friar. These elements contribute to the park's unique character and offer further points of interest for those exploring the area. Instagram

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