"The Headland Benifice" St Oswald's Church Flamborough
St Oswald's Church, Church Street, Sewerby, Flamborough, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1PE
A Norman font & arch, medieval graffiti, a magnificent carved early 16th century screen, a Victorian tower with peal of six bells and the curious tomb of Marmaduke Constable who swallowed a toad. Look out for the wonderful weathervane and discover the story behind the paper gloves. The first documentary evidence of a church at Flamborough dates from around 1150. Around 1200, a south aisle was added to the nave and chancel, to be followed fifty years later by a similar extension on the northern side. An Early English arch survived in the west wall of the nave until it was 'restored' in 1897 when the present tower was built. This arch would seem to indicate that a tower of some kind was in existence by 1300 or shortly afterwards. The ordination of a vicarage was made in 1310, although the controlling body remained the Priors and Canons of Bridlington Priory. By 1825 the need for renovation became paramount and a series of alterations and repairs were undertaken. Box pews were installed, and a new gallery was created on the west side. A new wall on the northern side of the churchyard was built in 1846, while a very extensive programme of rebuilding was initiated between 1846 and 1869. Most of the exterior was rebuilt, and the wooden bell turret was replaced by a much larger one in stone, containing three bells. The gallery at the west end of the nave was removed and the rood loft front erected in its place.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 20 September:
- 1000-1600
Location & directions
St Oswald's Church, Church Street, Sewerby, Flamborough, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1PE
- Directions:
- Parking is available in the car park opposite, the entrance is easy to miss. Parking further along the street and approaching on foot may be easier.
- Contact on day:
- Dawn McKie
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Wheelchair access is possible from Church Lane, once in the Church yard access is good.
Additional information
A fascinating church which predate the Norman invasion. The Roodscreen is said to have been taken from Bridlington Priory at the dissolution, the woodwork is of a high order and is well worth a detailed inspection. The Font is also of considerable age and is highly decorated on a simple form.
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
