Guisburgh Priory
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Guisborough Priory

4.6
·333 reviews·, United Kingdom

Majestic medieval priory ruins set in stunning, well-kept grounds, featuring a unique lime tree cathedral.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Volunteers share history

CrowdMedium
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Guisburgh Priory

Guisborough Priory

Best Time

Weekends

Volunteers share history

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Majestic medieval priory ruins set in stunning, well-kept grounds, featuring a unique lime tree cathedral.

4.6
(333 reviews)

"Lovely way to spend an hour or so if you are in the area. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Opening Times First

:calendar: Entry is free but hours are limited. Always verify online before you go!

Chat with Volunteers

:bustsinsilhouette: On-site volunteers are a treasure trove of historical info. Ask them anything!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Priory Ruins

Priory Ruins

Majestic remnants of a medieval Augustinian priory, offering a glimpse into centuries of history.

Lime Tree Cathedral

Lime Tree Cathedral

A stunning natural archway formed by ancient lime trees, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

Dovecote

Dovecote

A well-preserved historic dovecote, adding another layer to the priory's rich architectural heritage.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Limited Hours

Guisborough Priory offers free admission, a huge plus! However, opening times can be limited, especially outside peak season. Always check the official English Heritage website before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Explore the Grounds & History

While the priory ruins are the main draw, the surrounding grounds are beautifully maintained and offer a peaceful escape. Volunteers are often on-site and eager to share fascinating historical insights. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Volunteers share history
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Sunny grounds & wildflowers
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“Tomorah” #ckdageneral #relatable #uk #middlesbrough
@ckdageneral
8.7K likes • 122.9K views

Check Opening Times First

:calendar: Entry is free but hours are limited. Always verify online before you go! Reddit

Chat with Volunteers

:bustsinsilhouette: On-site volunteers are a treasure trove of historical info. Ask them anything! Reddit+1

Welcome to the home of the Boro ❤️🤍 #middlesbrough #teesside #billingham #england #boro
@billingham_snaps
8.6K likes • 89.2K views
Yoga in the Priory is coming to an end! What a joy it has been 🤍✨️ DM me or book via the link in my bio to make the most of this beautiful space while we can! Wednesdays 10 - 11am 🍂 • • • #guisborough #yogateacherguisborough #gisboroughpriory #findyourflow
movingmoonyoga
16 likes • 419 views

Explore the Pristine Grounds

:evergreen_tree: The well-kept grounds, including wildflower areas, are perfect for a peaceful stroll. Reddit

Combine with Local Cafes

:coffee: Nearby cafes like Oddsocks and cocktail bars like Twisted Peel are great additions to your visit.

📍 Guisborough Priory, Guisborough, North Yorkshire Guisborough was affected by the conflict between England and Scotland in the early 14th century. Having to house many displaced canons from other Augustinian houses, it put a strain on the finances. But by 1381 there were a standard 25 canons and 2 lay brothers at Guisborough, a more respectable number for Priories at the time #exploring #urbane...
phoenix.and.flower
26 likes • 224 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Times First

:calendar: Entry is free but hours are limited. Always verify online before you go! Reddit

Chat with Volunteers

:bustsinsilhouette: On-site volunteers are a treasure trove of historical info. Ask them anything! Reddit+1

Explore the Pristine Grounds

:evergreen_tree: The well-kept grounds, including wildflower areas, are perfect for a peaceful stroll. Reddit

Combine with Local Cafes

:coffee: Nearby cafes like Oddsocks and cocktail bars like Twisted Peel are great additions to your visit.

Discover Chaloner Masonry

:rock: Explore the unique Chaloner Masonry, made from priory remains, in Wonderland Gardens. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(333 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Guisborough Priory for its free entry and beautifully maintained grounds, highlighting the impressive ruins and the unique lime tree cathedral. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteers are frequently mentioned as a significant asset, enhancing the historical experience. While the site is compact, it's considered a worthwhile stop for a peaceful hour or so.

"Lovely way to spend an hour or so if you are in the area. Great cafe (oddsocks) and cocktail bar (twisted peel) nearby too. Totally run by volunteers, who are happy to give you info on the place and history.
Gorgeous cathedral of English lime trees there.
What's not to like. 😊"

Sheila Jagger

"Sunday 22nd June
Nice grounds to visit
Small but compact site, plenty of parking nearby
Free entry. The EH staff member on our visit was excellent, very well informed about the priory and passed on some useful and helpful information.
As with all EH & NT sites, check the opening times and days to avoid arriving when closed."

Alan Holmes

"Free to get in and easy to miss. What's left of the old priory and dove cote set in well kept grounds. Well worth a visit if you're in Guisborough."

Martin Storey

What People Like

Free entry
Beautiful grounds
Knowledgeable volunteers

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Guisborough Priory is located in Guisborough, North Yorkshire. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared on social media, it's generally accessible by car. There is plenty of parking nearby. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available nearby Guisborough Priory, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While Middlesbrough is mentioned in some travel vlogs,TikTok+1 Guisborough Priory is a separate destination. It's best to plan a dedicated visit or check local transport links if combining with Middlesbrough.

Information on specific routes from nearby towns is limited. Driving is likely the most straightforward option, with local bus services potentially available. Reddit

No specific road closures are widely reported. However, it's always advisable to check local traffic updates before your journey.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Guisborough Priory is completely free! This makes it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. Reddit+1

Opening hours can be limited and vary, especially outside of peak season. It's crucial to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

No, booking in advance is not required as entry is free. However, checking opening times is essential. Reddit

While the grounds are generally accessible, specific visitor access and facilities might be seasonal. Always confirm current opening status online. Reddit

While not always advertised on social media, volunteers often provide informal historical insights. Keep an eye on the English Heritage site for any scheduled events. Reddit+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the impressive priory ruins, wander through the beautifully maintained grounds, admire the unique lime tree cathedral, and see the historic dovecote. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a compact site perfect for a visit of an hour or so if you're in the area. Reddit

Absolutely! The ruins and grounds offer many picturesque opportunities. Instagrammers love capturing the scenery. Instagram+2

Information on specific facilities is limited, but as an English Heritage site, basic amenities are usually available. It's best to check their website for details.

The Chaloner Masonry is a unique feature made from the priory's remains, laid out by Admiral Lord Chaloner and located within Wonderland Gardens. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The priory ruins themselves offer dramatic shots, especially with the sky as a backdrop. The lime tree cathedral provides a unique natural frame, and the dovecote adds historical charm. Instagram+1

Yes, the textures of the stone ruins and the natural elements can translate beautifully into black and white. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the atmosphere of the ruins and grounds. Sunny days highlight the wildflowers. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Drone usage is generally not permitted at heritage sites like Guisborough Priory. Always check specific site regulations.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Guisborough Priory offers a free and engaging outdoor experience for families. The open grounds are perfect for children to explore and burn off energy, while the historical ruins can spark their imagination about the past. Reddit The well-maintained site is safe for younger visitors, and the natural beauty of the lime tree cathedral provides a unique spot for family photos. Instagram+1 Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable outing.

🚶‍♀️ History Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for history, Guisborough Priory is a must-visit. The substantial ruins offer a tangible connection to medieval monastic life, and the on-site volunteers are invaluable resources for detailed historical context. Reddit+1 Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the priory's founding, its role in regional history, and the architectural marvels of its construction. The Chaloner Masonry also provides a unique, albeit later, historical connection to the site. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Guisborough Priory is a photographer's delight, offering a blend of dramatic ruins and natural beauty. Capture the imposing stone structures against the sky, or frame shots through the unique lime tree cathedral. Instagram+1 The well-kept grounds, especially during wildflower season, provide vibrant backdrops. Early morning or late afternoon light can create a magical atmosphere for capturing the priory's timeless charm. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Guisborough Priory was founded in 1119 by the Augustinian order, making it a significant religious site in medieval England. Instagram+1 The priory experienced periods of prosperity and hardship, including being affected by conflicts between England and Scotland in the early 14th century, which strained its finances. By 1381, it housed a standard community of 25 canons and 2 lay brothers. Instagram The impressive scale of the priory, even in its ruined state, sparks wonder about the construction methods of centuries past. Reddit

Today, what remains are the evocative ruins of the priory church and a well-preserved dovecote. Reddit The site is managed by English Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Volunteers play a crucial role, often on-site to share their knowledge and passion for the priory's history with visitors. Reddit+1 The grounds themselves are a testament to careful maintenance, featuring areas dedicated to wildflowers and the unique 'lime tree cathedral'. Reddit

Exploring the Grounds and Gardens

Beyond the striking priory ruins, the surrounding grounds of Guisborough Priory offer a tranquil and beautiful experience. Visitors often praise the 'pristine' and 'well-kept' nature of the site, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. Reddit A particular highlight is the 'lime tree cathedral,' a natural archway formed by ancient trees that creates a breathtaking, almost ethereal, setting. Instagram+1 This unique feature, along with areas dedicated to growing wildflowers like sunflowers, adds a touch of natural beauty to the historical landscape. Reddit

For those interested in the priory's architectural past, the Chaloner Masonry within Wonderland Gardens is a point of fascination. This unique layout is constructed from the very remains of the priory, offering a tangible connection to its history. Instagram The combination of historical ruins and carefully curated natural spaces makes Guisborough Priory a delightful destination for both history buffs and nature lovers alike.

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