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Founded by Augustinian canons in 1169, the priory suffered many devastating Scottish raids, including one led by Robert the Bruce. Situated in the beautiful valley of the River Irthing, the priory had access to running water and to Hadrian's Wall, which provided much stonework for the buildings.
Unfortunately, the priory was also close to the Scottish border which made it a target for attack. In 1306, Edward I stayed here during his campaign to bring Scotland under English rule, but the expense of looking after the king and his retinue for five months severely depleted the priory's coffers.
In the aftermath of the Dissolution of the Monasteries Act, much of the priory was destroyed but the nave was retained to become the parish church (open during daylight hours). The church is dedicated to Mary Magdalene - a statue of her, given by Edward I, sits near the top of the west elevation of the church.
The Priory ruins, under the guardianship of English Heritage, are open to the public at a charge. In the converted outbuildings to the original Abbey Farm is the fabulous Lanercost Tea Room. Serving homemade and freshly prepared food using quality, local produce. The onsite gift shop promotes all the best of Made in Cumbria as well as a craft gallery.
Everything is homemade and freshly prepared to order using quality local produce. The home baked selection of cakes are a speciality, baked fresh every day without fail! Serving 'proper chips', Cumberland Sausage (of course!), Lanercost has a great reputation for favourites such as the 'Chicken in a Basket' and homemade Burgers.
Lanercost Priory Lanercost Brampton Cumbria CA8 2HQ
Contact email: [email protected]
Contact phone number: 01697 73030
Tue 28 Aug
Fri 24 Nov
Thu 23 Nov
Mon 26 Mar
Tue 28 Nov
Wed 7 Apr
Wed 29 Nov
Fri 6 Apr
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