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Bridlington Priory Church

Church Green, Bridlington, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO16 7JX

  • Multiple dates available
  • In person
  • Pre-booking not required

The Priory Church of St Mary, known as Bridlington Priory, was founded in 1113 as an Augustinian monastery and is a stunning example of mediaeval architecture. There will be several Children's and Family activities available.

The most illustrious of Bridlington’s priors, John of Thwing who died in 1379, was the last English saint to be created before the Reformation. As many as 15 miracles were attributed to Prior John during his lifetime and 12 afterwards. Pilgrims travelled to his shrine, including Henry V in 1421 and Henry VI in 1451. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, only the nave was left standing, which is the church we see today, and the entrance gate, which now houses the Bayle Museum. Modern-day visitors to the Priory can learn about the Augustinian canons, the life and times of St John of Bridlington, and dress up as an Augustinian canon.

The varied history of the Priory, from its foundation in 1113 through dissolution to the present day, is portrayed in twelve fascinating appliquéd panels and one done in 2013 depicting St John. Of the many miracles attributed to Prior John before and after his death, five were chosen for this piece: healing the sick; changing water into wine; feeding the poor; rescuing five Hartlepool sailors from a storm; saving a family from a burning cottage by carrying a ladder single-handed which normally took five men to lift.

Visitors will also find fine examples of the well-known Yorkshire woodworker ‘Mousey’ Thompson and can even go on a mouse hunt! In 2013 as part of the Priory’s 900th anniversary, local artist & sculptor Stephen Carvill created three wonderful pieces, which 21st century pilgrims can visit.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:
1100-1500
Sunday 14 September:
1200-1500
Monday 15 September:
1100-1500
Tuesday 16 September:
1100-1500
Wednesday 17 September:
1100-1500
Thursday 18 September:
1100-1500
Friday 19 September:
1100-1500
Saturday 20 September:
1000-1200

Location & directions

Church Green, Bridlington, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO16 7JX

Directions:
Free parking on Church Green, do not miss the other local attractions on Church green as well as exploring the Old Town and High Street of Bridlington.
Contact on day:
Helen Hughes

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Additional information

There will be a range of children's and family focussed activities to take part in. There are a number of exhibits in and around the priory that are suitable for all ages, children welcome. There will be exhibits from well known local artist and sculptor, as well as displays from local heritage organisations.

Est. tour duration:
1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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