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Ellerton Priory church, churchyard and landscape

Priory Church of St Mary and St Lawrence, Main Street, Ellerton, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO42 4PD

  • 13 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Site opening

Beautiful ancient and C19 church and lovely churchyard on a mediaeval monastic site, surrounded by a landscape of major ecological importance. Significant stained glass, modern craftsmanship, fascinating talks, truly great cakes and new events!

This delightful early building by J L Pearson, one of the greatest of Victorian architects, stands on the site of an unusual C13th Gilbertine Priory and incorporates intriguing ancient remains. Lovingly restored from almost complete ruin as a demonstration of fine traditional craftsmanship, the church houses a wonderful collection of ancient and modern stained glass (much of it specially commissioned) and interesting fittings. The beautiful churchyard is surrounded by the ings of the Lower Derwent Valley - one of the most precious flood-meadow landscapes in Britain, and home to rare plant and bird communities, which are being encouraged to re-colonise the churchyard. Our entertaining hour-and-a-half guided tours are renowned, people return regularly to sample Michael's spectacular and delicious home-made cakes and fresh coffee, and there will be a new exhibition on village people and history, related events and stalls selling cards and books.
There is ample car parking in the adjacent field and only two small steps into the building. There is also an excellent pub in the village. Tours take place at 11.30, 13.30 and 15.30.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:
10.00-17.00. Tours at 11.30, 13.30 and 15.30.

Location & directions

Priory Church of St Mary and St Lawrence, Main Street, Ellerton, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO42 4PD

Directions:
The village is just off the B1228 York-Howden road. The church and churchyard are at the very far end of the village, next to the large field car park. There may be animals and birds about, so no dogs in the car park, please.
Contact on day:
Phil Thomas
Telephone number:
+447809260045

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Parking is in a grassy field, but there will cattle and other creatures nearby so no dogs, please. Level access into the churchyard along a grass path, with two small steps into the building (assistance or a ramp will be available). Toilets at the Village Hall c.400 yards away.

Additional information

There will be a special exhibition and events related to the Everyday Histories theme, and experts on hand to explain and interpret the building, the contents, the churchyard and its wildlife and management.

Max number of people:
40
Estimated duration:
1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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