Fewston Can't Bury its Dead

Join us in a walk around the churchyard of St Michael and St Lawrence Church in Fewston to discover why a Home Office decree closed the churchyard in 1896, when burials had been conducted there since 1613. See some of the significant graves, some with curious headstone inscriptions, and learn something of the people and their stories.
Part of the churchyard was excavated in 2009 to build the Washburn Heritage Centre. The fascinating story of the remains and artefacts found (known as the Fewston Assemblage) in a post-medieval churchyard being examined and analysed as a collaborative project between scientists and volunteers, has received much praise and has global significance for archaeologists. The project continues - part of which is the Heritage Centre's current exhibition 'Churchyard Secrets Shared'. After coming face-to-face with Mr Lister and Mrs Dibb, why not linger for a cuppa and a slice of home-made cake!
The peaceful 17c church will be open for observation and quiet reflection. It is co-located with the Heritage Centre.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:

1200-1300 meet on church steps

Sunday 20 September:

1200-1300 meet on church steps

Location & directions

Washburn Heritage Centre, Fewston, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 1SU

Directions:

What 3 words: trending.lordship.whisker

Contact on day:

Christine or Val

Telephone number:

+441943880794

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Please book for the TOUR - (no booking needed for the Heritage Centre or church).

Booking contact name:

Jenny Wilson

Booking telephone number:

+441943880794

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking opens:

03 Aug 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

11 Sep 2026 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

The Heritage Centre is fully accessible, and with step-free access into the church. Uneven ground in the churchyard and a steep slope down from there to the Heritage Centre. Walking - OS grid ref SE195541, also up a path from Swinsty Reservoir Public transport - the site is on the route of the Dalesbus 821 - check times at www.dalesbus.org Car - small car park at side of the churchyard, with one space for a blue-badge holder, otherwise considerate parking on roads nearby.

Additional information

Max number of people:

20

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s)

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