Beverley Blackfriars

Beverley Blackfriars: A Historical Overview

Beverley Blackfriars, also known as The Old Friary, is a significant historical site located in Beverley, East Riding of Yorkshire, England. Its origins trace back to circa 1240 when a Dominican priory was established on land granted by the Archbishop of York. The initial priory was likely constructed of timber, with stone being incorporated as funds became available. The community flourished, leading to expansions, including a guest accommodation building in the early 14th century, which forms the core of the present structures and retains an original doorway.

By the late 14th century, the priory reached its maximum extent. However, the subsequent 150 years saw a gradual decline. A severe fire in 1449 destroyed the dormitory and library, necessitating restoration efforts supported by royal patronage. Despite the construction of two brick gateways in the 16th century, the friary's existence was curtailed in 1539 with the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Many of its buildings were demolished, but the guesthouse is thought to have been spared due to its non-religious function, or possibly was rebuilt on its site using salvaged materials.

History Since Dissolution

Following the Dissolution, the surviving guesthouse passed through several private owners, including John Pope, Anthony Foster, the Wharton family, the Earls of Yarborough, and the Whiting family, who retained ownership of a portion until 1960. During the 19th century, most of the remaining conventual buildings were demolished for the construction of a railway line. The guesthouse itself was divided into three separate dwellings. In the 1960s, the property was acquired by Armstrong Patents Co Ltd, who initially sought demolition permission. This was refused, and preservation orders were placed on the buildings, with restoration work commencing in 1974. Archaeological excavations between 1960 and 1987 uncovered remnants of the church and cloisters.

Owned today by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and maintained with assistance from the Beverley Friary Preservation Trust, the buildings have served as a youth hostel since 1984. They hold a Grade II* listing, recognizing their architectural and historical importance. Construction details reveal a mix of brick and stone, with some brickwork featuring a diaper pattern. The eastern portion may date from a rebuilding after the 1449 fire, potentially with royal patronage. Internal discoveries include painted wall plasters and a panelled room dating from the late 16th or early 17th century.