Heritage Open Days 2023

Beverley Minster

Beverley Minster, a gothic marvel with a great history, is open every day of the year for visitors, with special events for Heritage Open Days.

The roots of Beverley Minster go back to the 8th century when John, Bishop of York, founded a monastery for monks and, in a later source, also nuns, under Abbess Polfrida. John was educated at St Hilda’s double house at Whitby, so that a monastery of monks and nuns would be familiar to him. John died in the year 721 and was buried in his church; he was canonised in 1037 because of the miracles attributed to him during and after his lifetime. St John of Beverley became the patron saint of the deaf and dumb because he cured a young man who could not hear or speak. Monasteries were places where the poor could go for care during an illness or in their old age, boys were educated, and travellers could seek shelter and hospitality. Beverley was granted the rights of sanctuary – so the Minster became, and remains, a place of worship, sanctuary, healing and pilgrimage.

The Secret Garden of the Minster will be opened to the public again this year. Last year’s opening for HOD was a sensational success; even those who lived close by had never seen this wonderful place. The garden is constantly changing, with new things to see. It is a haven for wildlife and a very rare chance to enjoy its peace and tranquillity.