Wetheral Priory Gatehouse

Wetheral Priory Gatehouse is the principal survivor of a small Benedictine monastery founded in the early 12th century. The 15th-century red sandstone building guarded the entrance to the priory precinct and contained rooms above its passage for officials or important guests. After the monastery closed, its reuse as a vicarage helped preserve it while most of the other buildings disappeared. Look for the fireplaces, windows and traces of adjoining structures that explain how it once fitted into a larger complex. Reviewers enjoy exploring the rooms and reading the interpretation, especially as part of a visit to Wetheral village. The upper floor is reached by uneven steps, so take care and use the handrail where provided. There is no dedicated parking beside the gatehouse's narrow lane; approach on foot from the village.