Wetheral Priory Gatehouse — Attraction in Wetheral

I loved this BUT there is SO MUCH MORE TO SEE IF YOU ARE VISITING HERE... If you park at the train station (Wetheral) and walk down 99 steps besides the viaduct (turn right at the bottom) and follow the path right around to the Gatehouse. From the Gatehouse keep walking for maybe 5 mins then you'll find a metal swing gate leading onto a grassy path. Take the path into the ancient woods for a real treat and stunning views of the River Eden. Also along this path way on the river bank is MONKS CAVES /ST CONSTANTINES CELLS which are absolutely unreal to visit and the scenery on the way back along the river looking across is beyond words. Unfortunately you cannot visit that tho as its on private land. But still a circular trip like this one is really REALLY good. Don't forget to cross the viaduct for spectacular views of...

The priory was founded at the start of the 12th century and the gatehouse controlled the entrance to its outer courtyard. When the priory was dissolved in 1538 the gatehouse and a nearby stretch of wall were the only parts to survive. The crenellated gatehouse has three storeys, with the main entrance and porters' lodge on the ground floor and two domestic chambers on the upper floors. English Heritage considers the building to be 'the finest medieval gatehouse in Cumbria'. Closed because of flooding at the time...

Definitely worth a visit for anyone with an interest in historical buildings or architecture. The walk around the area is beautiful and getting to visit the priory is well worth a look. The staircases are well lit and safe for most people as long as you hold the hand rail. The old fireplace area must have been grand in its day. The views from the windows are beautiful. For safety reasons the roof area is not accessible. There are signs with information about the rooms and history...