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Lanercost Priory
Towards the western end of the Wall stands Lanercost Priory, built in 1166 by Augustinian monks. The interest of Lanercost to this story is that it was built using stones quarried from the Wall. Like all other priories and monasteries, Lanercost was closed during the reign of Henry VIII, but in the 18th century the Nave was restored to form a parish church for the local population. Today the church is open free of charge for any visitors, and houses a small, but interesting exhibition on the history of the site put together by members of the congregation. However to the south of the church, one can pass into the original cloister garth and on payment of a small fee, can explore with the assistance of an audio guide. Among the highlights pointed out by the guide are the undercrofts, with their many masons marks on the stonework, carved tombs of the Dacre family and their successors the Howards, owners of the Priory after the Dissolution.
The undercroft of Lanercost Priory
In addition the Prior’s house which was a converted Pele tower, stands to an impressive three story height, and at various points the audio guide directs the attention to inscribed Roman stones rebuilt into the walls.
The right-hand stone above the doorway lintel is a re-used inscribed stone mentioning the name of a Roman centurion
A highlight that the guide didn’t mention was to sit at ease in the cloister with swallows darting around, so close you feel that you could stretch out and touch them!
Having completed the tour, I returned my guide and left Lanercost, and the Wall, bidding a reluctant farewell to this wonderful monument to the Roman Empire. I don’t think it will be too long before I’m back for another visit - there are still bits I haven’t done!
Author and photos Valerie Reilly
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