Events

EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND!

'Phantoms at the Priory' is Norton Priory's art installation for 2026.  Following last year's successful 'Mars at the Museum', we're delighted to welcome the phantoms to the museum.

Commissioned specially for Norton Priory by the team behind York's hugely successful 'Ghosts in the Garden', this installation allows visitors to come face to face with some of the characters who have shaped the 900 year history of this remarkable place.

Meet an abbot, take a selfie with a canon, and see a kneeling knight.

Spend some time with Brooke family members, welcome a guest arriving for a summer ball, and find out what upset the Duke of Bridgewater.

Outside, see the Head Gardener at work, tending the vegetable plots.  And there are a few smaller surprises to discover as well.

Come and see the 'echoes of the past' for yourself.  We're open from 10am - 5pm. No need to book, pay on arrival at the museum. 

Experience Phantoms at the Priory in a whole new light (or dark!). On selected evenings in February and March the Museum will open after hours so that you can enjoy the spectre of the Phantoms after dark. 

Commissioned specially for Norton Priory by the team behind York's hugely popular 'Ghosts in the Garden'. These installations allow visitors to come face to face with some of the characters who have shaped the 900 year history of Norton Priory. 

Follow the trail around the Museum and Medieval Undercroft to sit before the Duke of Bridgewater, find the three mice and spooky spider, see the lady in the ballgown, an angel's face, an apparition of an arm, the Abbot, a Georgian couple in conversation, and take a seat next to the contemplative Canon. 

Can you capture a photo of a Phantom? 

The lights will be turned down low for this atmospheric experience. 

General Admission daytime tickets are also valid for the evening. The Walled Garden will close in line with normal opening hours. The Museum grounds will close at 5pm. 

FREE for Norton Priory Members. No need to book. 

A Book Club you don’t have to do the reading for.

We will read something unsettling to you.

Perfect for enjoyers of eerie tales, and those curious to know more about the stories that make their skin crawl... 

Join Norton’s Narrator Gav Cross and author John Reppion as they delve into the stories behind some of your favourite spine-tingling tales. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost story expert or a newcomer to the realm of creepy fiction, Haunted Book Club welcomes all new members with open (and possibly skeletal) arms.

Joining the Phantoms at Norton Priory we will be bringing 'The Curfew' by Lucy M. Boston. This haunted story of open graves and lost bell towers, is widely considered to be inspired by Norton Priory.  Lucy M. Boston, perhaps best known for her 'Green Knowe' series of children's books, lived on the estate before the final demolition of the house. Whatever you do. Don’t ring the bell on the way out…

Join in the conversation or sit quietly in the dark. Whatever you choose. Keep glancing over your shoulder…

Recommended for ages 12+, the performance will last 2 hours, including an interval.  Refreshments will be served by the Brooke Cafe.