Things to See and Do at Mount Grace Priory
There’s plenty to see and do on a visit to Mount Grace Priory. As well as exploring this brilliantly preserved Carthusian monastery, you can step inside a recreated monk’s cell, see an original William Morris carpet, enjoy a beautiful Arts and Crafts garden, and relax in the modern, purpose-built Orchard Cafe.
Explore the Priory
Visit Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens, and discover the best-preserved of the few English Carthusian monasteries. Founded in the late 14th century, you can still see remains of all the priory buildings today.
The austere Carthusians were semi-hermits, and each monk lived alone in a cottage-like ‘cell’ ranged round the immense Great Cloister.
Take a walk around the typically small church with its striking surviving tower, explore the great cloister and don't miss the reconstructed monk's cell.
Contemplate life as a monk
Step inside the modest recreated monk's cell at Mount Grace Priory and see the rooms where a Carthusian monk lived and worked.
On your way in, look out for the L-shaped hatch which was used to deliver food and other essentials without any need to communicate.
Be sure to explore the monk's cell garden full of herbs, vegetables and flowers. Based on extensive research, the garden reflects how the monks would have used this multi-functioning space. Pick up a planting guide inside the cell to find out more about the plant varieties and their uses.
Enjoy an arts and crafts manor house
Wander the rooms, hallways and attics of the Arts and Crafts manor house at Mount Grace. Enjoy eclectic interiors where William Morris' designs complement original medieval and restored 17th century features. Stop by the drawing room to see an original William Morris carpet.
The manor house building was originally the priory guest house. It was converted into a home in the 17th century and then extended and refurbished in the Arts and Crafts style at the end of the 19th century by Sir Lowthian Bell.
Head to the first floor to delve into the history of Mount Grace in the museum, from the medieval monks through to the Bell family.
See the gardens
Explore 13 acres of rejuvenated Arts and Crafts gardens at Mount Grace. Roam the room-like spaces of the terraces and dell garden, with borders redesigned by award winning gardener Chris Beardshaw.
Discover year-round seasonal spectacles with bluebells in spring, the scent of eglantyne roses filling the air in summer, the bright red of the Japanese Acers in autumn, and snowdrops in winter. Pick up a seasonal leaflet from admissions for more highlights.
Venture further into the meadows and orchard, which is planted with traditional Yorkshire varieties of apple trees. Then follow mown paths across the pasture to spot birds on the lake.
Stop for a bite
Sit back and enjoy views of the orchard as you tuck into soups, sandwiches, hot snacks and sweet treats, along with hot and cold drinks in the Orchard Cafe at Mount Grace Priory.
You can find allergen and nutritional information here.
Thank you! Every cuppa or tasty treat you buy helps us continue our charity work looking after England’s heritage.
There’s also covered seating outside, and a picnic area for you to use.
Have some fun
Grab an explorer pack on entry and head out on a garden adventure with Sammy the stoat, then discover the priory with Brother Nicholas. You'll find a handy magnifying glass, binoculars, and a spotter's guide inside to help you get to grips with wildlife in the gardens.
Keep your eyes peeled for family-friendly plant markers in the monk's cell garden and find out how the monks would have used the different herbs and flowers.
Big and little kids alike will enjoy looking out for our cheeky illustrated stoat, who is just waiting to be spotted hiding on benches and signs. You might even learn a thing or two about these crafty little creatures as you go.