Norton Priory Museum & Gardens, situated on the edge of Runcorn, is one of Cheshire's hidden gems. Once home to a medieval church, this is the most excavated monastic site in Europe. Visitors can explore the 12th century undercroft with beautiful vaulted ceiling and the priory ruins showing the layout of the medieval buildings. The museum displays thousands of objects discovered at the site, which tell the 900-year history from priory to mansion house and the stories of the people who lived here. The museum is surrounded by woodland walks, bringing opportunities to discover secret summer houses, sculptures and a stream glade. During the summer season, the tranquil 2.5 acre Georgian Walled Garden is also open, with orchards, a rose walk and a herb garden. Norton Priory is home to the National Collection of Tree Quince, and the gardens and grounds support a wide variety of flora and fauna.
History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Historic house Religion Religious building Archaeology Garden & Park Local Miscellaneous Music Plants
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Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | Closed |
Thursday | Closed |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Summer: 1st April – 31st October (Thursday Only Open During School Holidays)
Friday - Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Museum: 10am - 5pm (last entry 4:30pm)
Walled Garden: 12pm - 4pm
Winter: 1st November – 31st March (Thursday Only Open During School Holidays)
Friday - Tuesday 10am-4pm
Museum: 10am - 4pm (last entry 3:30pm)
The Walled Garden closes for the Winter during this time.
Please see Norton Priory Museum & Gardens' website for details on special events and planned closures.
Adults (advance booking, summer) | £10.50 |
Adults (advance booking, winter) | £7.50 |
Adults (on the day, summer) | £11.50 |
Adults (on the day, winter) | £8.50 |
Carer (valid with a paying adult) | Free |
Child 0-16 (up to 3 children per paying adult FREE) | Free |
Children go free! With every Adult General Admission Ticket, up to 3 children can visit our site for free, additional children will be charged. General admission prices do not include special events.
The Norton Priory Museum Trust Tudor Road Manor Park, Runcorn
Norton Priory Museum & Gardens has 1 rating.
Norton Priory Museum and Gardens in Runcorn, England, offers visitors an engaging blend of history and nature. The site features the remains of an Augustinian abbey, providing insight into medieval monastic life. The museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered during excavations, including the notable Norton Priory Medieval Sculpture Collection. The surrounding gardens and woodland add to the appeal, offering pleasant walks and seasonal displays. Visitors often appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits. The museum's interactive displays and educational programs are generally well-received, particularly for families and school groups. Some reviewers mention that the site might benefit from more extensive signage or guided tours to fully appreciate its historical context. The on-site café receives mixed reviews, with some praising the refreshments while others suggest room for improvement. Overall, Norton Priory Museum and Gardens provides a worthwhile experience for those interested in local history and archaeology, set in an attractive natural environment.
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