Lindisfarne Priory

Lindisfarne Priory, also known as Holy Island, is a historic monastery founded by Saint Aidan in 635 AD. It was one of the most important monastic centres in medieval England and played a key role in the spread of Christianity in the country.
The priory was known for its scriptorium, where the Lindisfarne Gospels, a beautiful illuminated manuscript of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, was produced.
The Vikings raided the island in the 8th century, destroying the original monastery and in the 16th century, the ruins of the priory were incorporated into a castle.
The priory has been in ruins since the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, but much of the remains still stand today, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

When visiting the Lindisfarne Priory, visitors can see a variety of historical artefacts and architectural features including:

• The remains of the 7th century monastic church, including the impressive chancel arch and several stone crosses
• The visitor centre, which offers exhibits and displays about the history of the priory and its role in the spread of Christianity in England
• The remains of the monastic buildings, such as the chapter house, refectory and cloister
• The priory’s stone carvings, including the grave slabs and sculptured crosses
• The site’s beautiful and well-maintained gardens, which include a herb garden and a reconstructed medieval garden.
• The priory’s graveyard, where you can see old gravestones and memorials
• The artefacts and manuscripts from the priory’s past, such as the Lindisfarne Gospels and other religious texts
• Guided tours, which provide a deeper understanding of the history and architecture of the site.

Please note, visitors should check the website of the priory before planning their visit.