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Fascinating priory hidden from view is in a fascinating wooded valley

This stunning priory sits on the River Coquet – and is a must-see for historical past lovers.

The constructing is unusually not a break, however a fully-formed piece of historical past (Picture: Brinkburn Priory)

Throughout the UK, quite a few former monastic church buildings lie in ruins, with one notable exception nestled on a bend of the River Coquet in Northumberland. Situated roughly 4 miles east of Rothbury, you may uncover the gorgeous Brinkburn Priory, a construction steeped in historical past relationship again to the twelfth century. Uniquely, this priory church survived the dissolution of the monasteries underneath Henry VIII’s reign as a result of its twin perform as a parish church.

After enduring centuries of decline following the dissolution, it underwent restoration within the Nineteenth century, ensuing within the magnificent edifice we see at the moment. Now, it holds Grade I listed standing and stays underneath the stewardship of English Heritage as a protected website, open for public exploration.

It was constructed within the twelfth century (Picture: Brinkburn Priory)

Its secluded location alongside the river, nestled inside a loop accessible through a path by picturesque woodlands, makes it an excellent vacation spot for historical past fanatics. The expansive grounds present loads of house for outside actions and recent air. Should you’re fortunate, you would possibly even spot an otter lounging by the river when peering over the hedge.

Venturing inside, guests can marvel on the medieval constructions which have stood the take a look at of time, now seamlessly blended with Victorian additions, together with placing stained glass home windows. Adjoining to the church stands a Nineteenth-century manor home, constructed on the foundations of the unique monastic buildings, showcasing neo-Gothic architectural aptitude.

The location welcomes all guests, although entry is completely by guided excursions, with grownup entry charges ranging from £5.90. On-the-day ticket purchases on the website will incur the next price, and it is price noting that the priory usually closes through the winter season.

Moreover, the priory could be booked for particular occasions and weddings, and it incessantly hosts quite a lot of wellness retreats. These embody actions akin to yoga, tai chi, Pilates, sound baths, and even digital detox experiences.

One customer shared their impressions on TripAdvisor, stating: “It is a good English Heritage website. The doorway is free for English Heritage members. It’s a well-preserved and well-looked-after historic website.

“There’s a store on the workplace and a second-hand bookshop within the priory. The youngsters liked the place, and we might be again quickly. The parking is a pair hundred metres from the priory constructing. The views are stunning.”

One other customer beforehand shared: “What a peaceable and tranquil place. We had been very warmly welcomed by Juliet, the positioning supervisor, and nothing was an excessive amount of bother. She was extraordinarily useful and educated and a credit score to English heritage.

“Brinkburn is an exquisite priory and has quite a lot of stunning options; the stained glass home windows within the priory are a formidable sight even if you’re not spiritual. We may have fortunately stayed all day with a picnic and a guide.”

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