A Visit To St Mary’s Church, Whitby

Regular readers will know that I’ve been to Whitby many times. But I’ve never actually been inside the historic St Mary’s Church that stands on the East Cliff…

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Regular readers will know that I’ve been to Whitby many times. But I’ve never actually been inside the historic St Mary’s Church that stands on the East Cliff in Whitby, North of England. It’s a stunner a building that has panoramic views of the North Sea and the narrow streets of Whitby.

St Mary’s Church has witnessed centuries of history, from the Norman Conquests to the Georgian era, and has even inspired legendary tales like Bram Stoker’s Dracula. So let’s look at this landmark, its historical significance, and the stunning views that it offers.

The Historical Background

The Foundations

The oldest parts of St Mary’s Church dates back to the Norman era, around 1100 AD. The original structure comprised the quire and nave, with the tower and transepts added in the 12th and 13th centuries. This historical monument is a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the era and stands as a beacon of Whitby’s rich history.

The Additions

The church underwent significant renovations during the 18th and 19th centuries. The nave’s interior was revamped with late 18th-century Georgian elements, while unusual enclosed box pews and a triple-decker pulpit were added in the 19th century. Despite the alterations, the church still retains elements of its Norman past, with remnants visible in the chancel and the Tudor altar.

The Church of St Mary Today

The Exterior and Surroundings

Standing at the top of a hill, St Mary’s Church overlooks the town and the ruins of Whitby Abbey. The scenic beauty of the North Sea and the rolling Yorkshire countryside creates a lovely backdrop for the church and its extensive graveyard. The weather-beaten gravestones, many belonging to former mariners and fishermen, add to the historic charm of the place. 

The Interior

The interior of the church is a unique blend of architectural styles. The nave is decorated in late 18th-century Georgian style. This contrasts with the unusual enclosed box pews and triple-decker pulpit, added in the 19th century. The pew boxes themselves are fascinating. I’ve never been a church that has pew boxes. It’s like being in your own personal booth. There was signage saying how the privately owned pew boxes would be covered to protect them from dust and debris from the church. It made the church feel like you were walking through narrow corridors, rather than a church.

The Norman windows and stonework in the chancel and the Tudor altar pay homage to the church’s ancient roots. There’s a triple-decker pulpit, and Elizabethan communion table, as well as other fascinating details.

There’s a gift shop in the church’s visitor centre should you wish to buy a souvenir. 

Access and Transport

Visitors can reach the hilltop and the church by foot, starting from the town and ascending the famous 199 steps at the end of Church Street. Alternatively, visitors can drive to the top and park in the abbey’s lot for a small fee. There’s also the option of taking the hourly Esk Valley Bus 97.

Exploring the Church Grounds

The Churchyard

The churchyard, a setting in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, is full of weather-beaten gravestones. It’s a tranquil place to soak in the view of the town and the sea and can be a bit eerie in cold and foggy weather. Nature lovers will appreciate it here as you really get to take in the breathtaking views of Whitby. 

The 199 Steps

For those seeking a bit of exercise and great views, the 199 steps leading up to the church offer a challenging climb. The top of the steps rewards you with stunning views of the town, Whitby Beach, the harbor, and the surrounding countryside.

Visitor Information

Entry and Donations

One of the best things about this church is that entry to St Mary’s Church is free, however, a suggested donation of £1 is appreciated to contribute to the upkeep of this historic monument.

Dress Code

When visiting St Mary’s Church, it’s recommended to dress appropriately out of respect for the religious setting.

Mass Timings

For those interested in attending a service, it’s best to check with locals or visit the church’s website for mass timings.

Visit St Mary’s Church 

A visit to St Mary’s Church is a must. It was my first time visiting the Church of Saint Mary but I will be back to explore more of this great place. So next time you’re in North Yorkshire, be sure to add St Mary’s Church to your itinerary.

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5 comments

  1. As a history buff I LOVE this kind of post. Love that you took Leo along so that he can learn about everything there!
    Rosie

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