Bridlington Priory, Church — Attraction in Bridlington

I attended as the wedding car driver so I had the chance to walk through the grounds and the graveyard. The church is part of the old Priory and as such is steeped in history. It was partly destroyed during the reformation which was the fate of many monastical premises during the wrath of King Henry the V111 and his henchman Thomas Cromwell. However, this part of the Priory was saved no doubt because it would have then served as a Parish Church. The graveyard is mostly neat but there is a wilding project near the rear to promote wildlife to return, which is admiral in intention. There is also a part of the graveyard given over to THE QUEEN'S COMMONWEALTH CANOPY. Even at this time of year I thought it looked spectacular. I would recommend taking at least an hour out of your schedule to just come and walk the grounds, read the information boards and soak up the history, you won’t be disappointed. There is also an interesting take on modern life as there are two carvings over one of the doors, which are of the current King Charles and Queen Camilla. Oh and the Vicar liked my car...

Grade 1 listed building. Formerly the site of a Saxon church and nunnery, the priory was founded circa 1113. If you are a fan of Robert Thompson, there is a mouse trail you can follow, as Bridlington Priory has 18 of his meeces carved into his creations. There are some stunning appliqué screens, telling the history of the priory. The skill and craftsmanship, never mind the hours and dedication, that have gone into designing and making these wonderful textile pieces is amazing. Wonderful work. There are some great gargoyles and other masonry carvings. The priory is set in lovely grounds, which include five trees from the Queen's Commonwealth Canopy and a lavender maze. Well...

On a chance visit, we were welcomed into the church by a couple of very friendly and knowledgable lady volunteers, who were happy to chat and answered all of our questions. It is an amazing, large parish church. Originally an Augustinian priory, until dissolved by Henry VIII's vandals, they did at least leave the nave untouched to serve the local population. There is a wonderful, high wooden ceiling, some beautiful stained glass windows and lots of elaborate memorials on the walls. Bridlington must have grown a lot between 1918 and 1939 - it is the only place I have been where there are very nearly as many names on the 1939 - 45 memorial as on that...