Low Row

Within easy reach of the town is Hadrian’s Wall, just three miles to the north. If you’ve ever wondered where the Wall’s missing masonry went to, look no further than the fabric of Lanercost Priory (English Heritage). An impressive red sandstone ruin set in secluded woodland, the priory was founded in 1166 by Robert de Vaux. Lanercost is well preserved and its scale is a reminder that it was a grand complex in its heyday. However, the priory suffered greatly in the border raids of the 13th and 14th centuries. One such raid is known to have been led by William Wallace, an early campaigner for Scottish independence from English rule. When the Priory was closed in 1536, the sandstone blocks were recycled once again for houses in the town. But much of the Priory’s great north aisle remains intact, set in a romantic and hauntingly beautiful position in the valley of the River Irthing. The Priory is well signposted and lies only three miles off the A69 (leave at Brampton).

Also most impressive is Naworth Castle, built around 1335 in its present form by Lord Dacre as an important border stronghold. The castle’s supreme glory is the Great Hall, hung with French tapestries and guarded by four unique heraldic beasts holding aloft their family pennants. The Long Gallery extends for 116 feet and was used as a guardroom.

Available Guidebooks for this region:

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