Norton Priory
Norton Priory, a Grade I listed building, situated near Runcorn, was a priory and later an abbey, established as an Augustinian foundation by William Fitz Nigel, 2nd Baron of Halton in the twelfth century.
The foundations of Norton Priory
![Norton Priory](images_4/np1.jpg)
The abbey was largely demolished following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536. The site now exists as a museum and tourist attraction.
Operated by a charitable trust, the Museum and Gardens are open to the public. The fascinating museum features a history of the site and some of the artefacts discovered during archeological excavations that took place there, including a medieval stone coffin. The medieval statue of Saint Christopher has been restored and it forms the centrepiece of a display in the museum. The priory even has an "original" bell - c cast from its clay mould, which was found in the excavations.
Norman Doorway in the Undercroft
![Norton Priory](images_4/np2.jpg)
The undercroft is all that now remains of the original buildings, (with a Victorian addition) but the foundations of the abbey and the monastery are clearly visible.
The walled garden at the priory includes the national collection of tree quinces. There is also a medieval herb garden. A regular programme of events is organised throughout the year.