Beverley Tourist Attractions

The impressive Minster on the south side of Beverley was built between 1220 and 1420. The 334ft/102m-long cathedral was founded by St John of Beverley, Bishop of York (d. 721). The choir and double transepts were completed in the mid-13th century and are in the purest Early English style. The nave, begun in 1308, is mainly Decorated; the west front with its twin towers, adorned with statues, is Perpendicular. In spite of the mingling of styles the general effect is harmonious, thanks largely to the magnificent carving of the stonework. The west doorway features figures of the Evangelists (early 18th century). The window above them is in nine sections and is elaborately decorated. The north doorway dates from the early 15th century.Notable features of the nave are the Romanesque font of Frosterley marble, the triforium and the Maiden's Tomb. The main transepts have both east and west aisles. The columns at the east end of the church are of Purbeck marble. The choir is a magnificent example of Early English architecture. The magnificent choir-stalls (1520) have the largest number of misericords in England (68). The canopied Percy Tomb, next to the high altar, is a work of the highest perfection. It is probably the tomb of Eleanor Fitzalan (d. 1328), wife of Lord Percy. The large east window behind the high altar in the Lady Chapel contains some fine old glass dating from 1417.

On the north side of the market place stands St Mary's, a cross-shaped church begun in the 12th C and constructed both in the Decorated and the Perpendicular styles. Its finest parts are the west front (1380-1411), the choir-stalls and 15th C misericords, the painted figures of English kings and the rich sculptural decoration.It is said to owe its origin to Thurstan, Archbishop of York, 1114-1143, who had been Provost of Beverley Minster. Between 1844 and 1876, a complete restoration of the Church was carried out.

The Beverley Early Music Festival takes place in early May and highlights both early music and the architectural heritage of the town. The events take place in various medieval buildings, including the castle, St Mary's Church and the Georgian Guildhall.The program is equally impressive and includes orchestral, chamber and organ concerts, recitals and lectures. The performers themselves are always of top quality, making this festival an all-around quality event.

The marvelous Market Cross dates from 1714, while the stuccoed Guildhall was built in the 17th century. Behind St Mary's Church is the brick-built North Bar, the only one of the original five town gates to survive, and beyond this lies a charming Georgian residential area.

ATTRACTION IS PERMANENTLY CLOSED.The Beverely Museum of Army transport has an impressive collection of armored fighting vehicles, rail transports, aircraft and other military vehicles.

This annual festival takes place in June.