Finchale Priory

A Day Out at Finchale Priory: Fun for Families and Adults

Looking for a peaceful place with a bit of adventure? Finchale Priory (say it “Finkle”) is a brilliant spot for a day out. It’s in County Durham, right next to the River Wear, and it’s full of history, nature, and space to explore.

What Is Finchale Priory?

Finchale Priory is over 800 years old. It was first a quiet home for a man called St Godric, who wanted to live a simple life. Later, it became a holiday retreat for monks from Durham Cathedral. Today, you can walk through the ruins of the old church, see the stone arches, and imagine what life was like long ago.

For Families

• Explore the Ruins – Kids can play pretend as knights or explorers while walking through the old buildings.
• Picnic Time – Bring food and enjoy a picnic on the grass. There’s a small shop that sells drinks, ice cream, and scones.
• Play Games – The open space is great for hide and seek or tag, but watch for uneven paths.
• Woodland Walks – Explore the woods across the bridge and spot wildlife like birds and deer.

For Adults

• Peaceful Surroundings – Enjoy a quiet stroll or sit by the river to relax and listen to the birds.
• Photography – The ruins and river make lovely photo spots, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
• History Lovers – Read signs around the priory to learn about St Godric and life in medieval times.
• Walking Routes – Walk through Cocken Wood for some fresh air. Wear strong shoes in case it’s muddy.
• Nearby Caravan Park – Stay overnight and explore more of County Durham from the quiet on-site caravan park.

Good to Know

• Free entry to the priory ruins.
• Opening hours: 10am–5pm in summer, 10am–4pm in winter.
• Parking: £4 for two hours, or £3 all day nearby if you're happy with a short walk.
• Dog-friendly: Dogs on leads are welcome and will enjoy the walk too.
• Facilities: Toilets and a small shop on site, but no café—so bring lunch if you want more than a snack.

Finchale Priory is a lovely mix of history, nature, and fun. Whether you’re a family with kids or adults wanting a peaceful escape, it’s a great place to spend a few hours.