"The Headland Benifice" St Michael's Church, Bempton
St. Michael's Church, Church Lane, Bempton, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1HJ
A slightly wonky octagonal tower lantern turret rises up from Saxon foundations, there is a goblet shaped font, 21st century adaptations, an unusual Chancel screen and a stained glass window proud with sea parrots. Once linked to Bridlington Priory one of the bells is inscribed “1371 in memory of John de Thwing”, better known as St. John of Bridlington. In the early 1440s, a separate Parish of Bempton came into existence. Parish Priests were now the spiritual leaders of local communities. There is some evidence that Bempton was separated from Bridlington Priory in 1474. In 1556, it came close to being destroyed, having been wrongly listed as a Chantry by the authorities in charge of the Dissolution. The burial and marriage registers were begun in 1577 and the baptismal register in 1605. The chancel was rebuilt in 1829 at the personal expense of the rector, Henry Broadley. The bad condition of the church itself gave the vicar cause for concern in 1865, and from 1868/70, a much-needed restoration was carried out. The South Aisle was rebuilt, new pews were installed and a brick Clerestory was added. The incumbency of John Wilkinson led to further restoration work during the period 1906/14. The Reverend E.H. Rudkin, who wrote the history of his parish, appealed for restoration funds in 1946. The tower is an outstanding feature of the local landscape. It has an unusually shaped octagonal lantern turret, surmounted by a crenellated parapet.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 20 September:
- 1000-1600
Location & directions
St. Michael's Church, Church Lane, Bempton, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1HJ
- Directions:
- On street parking is free, Church Lane is just off High Street.
- Contact on day:
- Dawn McKie
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
A fascinating Church with a varied history and several unusual features which are well worth looking at. The ceilings in particular look to be from the Georgian period.
Additional information
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
