Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours
Address:
Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, WV8 1QZ
Ruins of the late 12th century church of a small nunnery of 'white ladies' or Augustinian canonesses.
The priory enjoyed a moment of high drama in 1651 when it briefly became the hiding place of Charles II after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. Disguised as a woodsman with his face covered in soot, he soon moved to nearby Boscobel House.
Read more about the history of White Ladies Priory.
Before You Go
Parking: There is very limited parking along the side of the lane at the end of the track that leads to the priory. Free parking is available at Boscobel House (check opening times), from here the Priory is a 20 minute walk. PLEASE NOTE when Boscobel House is closed, parking is not available.
How to Find it: From Boscobel House, follow the permissive path south to the priory. From the lane, the priory is located a short 150 metre walk down a wooded track which can be very muddy in wet weather.
Facilities: Boscobel House has a tearoom, a shop and toilets.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Plan a Great Day Out
Follow in the footsteps of King Charles II and visit nearby Boscobel House. There you can see the priest-hole Charles hid in, take a tour around around the manor house, stroll around the restored knot garden and visit the Victorian farmyard. A tearoom in the old stables serves home-made cakes, light lunches and hot and cold drinks.
Within a 20 minute drive you'll find another 12th century abbey at Lilleshall, and the pioneering Iron Bridge, Britain's best-known industrial monument.
