Guidebook: Lanercost Priory

The peaceful ruins of Lanercost Priory mask a turbulent history. Founded by Robert de Vaux in about 1169, the priory’s church and buildings were largely constructed with stone taken from Hadrian’s Wall, just a mile away. Its community of Augustinian canons was not left to pursue its devotions in peace, however, as this border country was frequently disputed between the kingdoms of Scotland and England. The priory itself was attacked on a number of occasions and was even occupied for several months by King Edward I and his entourage. After the Dissolution, the east end of the church and many of its buildings fell into ruin and the west cloister range was converted into a house known as Dacre Hall, which today remains a separate space used for community events. The nave of the church was walled-off to become the parish church. It was restored a number of times, including in the late 19th century by the Howard earls of Carlisle, with contributions by leading artists of the Arts and Crafts movement. The nave of the church continues to function as a parish church. This new Red Guidebook presents a tour and history of the priory buildings and the church, and includes special features on the Augustinian canons, Dacre Hall and the family tombs in the church’s east end. With new reconstruction illustrations, maps, plans, and all new site photography, the guide tells the story of the priory over the last 850 years. Key Features: Published July 2019 Paperback 40 pages 285 x 160mm