Bridlington Priory

Bridlington Priory stands in the East Riding of Yorkshire as the parish church of St Mary. It occupies the site of an Augustinian priory founded in 1113 by Walter de Gant. The priory once stretched over 400 feet long with a transept of 150 feet. Augustinian canons from Bridlington established Newburgh Priory in 1145. Kings such as Henry I and John granted rights and lands to the priory over the centuries. The priory’s wealth at dissolution was estimated at £547 a year. Only the nave and gatehouse survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries. The priory’s history includes royal favour and notable figures. William le Gros fortified the priory during a local conflict in the 12th century. The priory owned land from Blubberhouses to Spurn Point at dissolution. Its quire featured woodwork by William Brownflete, known for work in Beverley Minster and Ripon Cathedral. The last prior, William Wode, was executed for his role in the Pilgrimage of Grace. The nave served as the parish church for three centuries after dissolution. Visitors find a restored 19th-century church with medieval roots. The tower holds eight bells cast in 1902, the heaviest weighing 1,300 kilograms. A clock installed in 1880 strikes the hours on a 1,400-kilogram bell. The organ, rebuilt in 1889 by Charles Anneessens, has been restored and enlarged in the 21st century. Stained glass and whitewashed interiors date from 19th-century restorations. A memorial plaque honours Ginger Lacey, a Battle of Britain fighter ace.