Lindisfarne Priory

Schools

Lindisfarne Priory was one of the most important centres of early English Christianity, with monks settling here in AD 635. Follow in the footsteps of the Anglo-Saxon monks and learn more about monastic life, explore this fascinating site and discover how the once magnificent priory was victim to a brutal Viking attack.

Information about your visit

Our number one priority remains the health, safety and security of all of our visitors, staff and volunteers. Our staff are still working hard to keep everyone safe and make sure you and your group have an enjoyable visit.

Important information to consider before you book:

  • To keep everyone safe we’re continuing to limit visitor numbers at some sites and in some indoor spaces. Please book as soon as possible to secure your preferred trip date and times.
  • Find out more about what to expect on your school visit and make sure you download our COVID risk assessments; download a free copy of managing education visits during the pandemic and if you're participating in a Discovery Visit download our managing Discovery Visits during the pandemic risk assessment
  • To make the planning process as easy as possible, make sure you check our Plan Your School Trip section at the bottom of this page, for updated information on the facilities at the site as well as our free resources.
  • You’ll need to book your visit at least 14 days in advance. Please check our terms and conditions for full details.
  • Although is it not a requirement, any teachers, parents, or students aged 16 years can check in via the NHS Test and Trace app, using the NHS QR code posters displayed at the site entrance. Please factor this into your travel/arrival time. For more information about how we are handling your personal data for NHS Test and Trace please visit this page.
  • Our staff are continuing to wear a face covering in our busy areas and indoor spaces, and we encourage you and your group to do the same where possible.

At some sites you might not be able to use our handling collections or costumes as part of a free self-led visit, but where we can provide hands-on items in a safe way we will. We’ve adapted our Discovery Visit workshops to keep you and your group safe at all times, but for certain sessions we’re still working on this – please check the Discovery Visit section and Facilities section on this page below for further information.

Curriculum links

A visit to Lindisfarne Priory offers curriculum links across three key stages:

  • KS1-3 History: Local History Project
  • KS2 History: Britain's settlement by Anglo-Saxons and Scots; the Viking and Anglo-Saxon struggle for the Kingdom of England
  • KS3 History: The development of church, state and society in medieval Britain 1066-1509

Free Self-led Visits

We offer free entry to qualifying learning groups. On a free education visit, you can lead your visit in your own way to fulfil your curriculum objectives. Explore the 12th century Priory ruins, from the cellars and kitchens in the West Range to the dramatic 'Rainbow Arch'. Learn more about the 1,400 year history of Lindisfarne in the museum, including the Priory's Saxon origins, the story of St Cuthbert, and a devastating Viking raid.

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Plan Your Trip

We have a wide range of materials to support your visit and make school trip planning easy. Download our free resources to help you make the most out of your visit and create unique learning experiences before, during and after your trip.

We also offer free planning visits for group leaders once you have made a booking. Our Education Booking Team is on hand to advise and help you create the best possible school trip to suit your needs and area of study.

  • Facilities
    • PARKING: Pay and Display car park located approximately five minutes’ walk from the site.
    • MUSEUM: The museum explores the story of St Cuthbert and the 1,300 year history of Lindisfarne Priory. The collection includes the Viking Raiders stone, depicting the Viking raid on Lindisfarne in AD 793.
    • TOILETS: The nearest toilet facilities are a short distance away in the village.
    • LUNCH: Students are welcome to bring packed lunches and picnic on the grass. 
    • SHOP: The shop sells a selection of English Heritage gifts and souvenirs. Please bring your students in small groups.
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