An Augustian Monk strains on the bivy
So carrying on with my Bridlington post. Once I left the Priory, I walked over to the Bayle Museum. This structure used to be the gatehouse, so to speak, of the Priory. It was probably built soon after 1388 when a licence to fortify the Priory was granted by King Richard II. It controlled who came and went. Although other activities occurred there as well. It is a cute little museum covering the history of the Priory, the Bayle building, and Bridlington itself. It covers periods from back in the middle ages through to the wars. Although small, it is a good little museum and it only costs 3 pounds to get in, so why not.
The Bayle Museum
The Bayle building used to have two sets of spiral stair cases within each tower on the sides. Only one remains. Off the sides of the spiral stair cases were closets which were actually toilets. The waste would go down a chute and in the case of this structure to a pit below which would have to be cleaned out by labourers on a regular basis. If you stand outside the building, you can see where the building sticks out to accommodate these bivies. I thought the life sized figure of the monk on the toilet was hilarious.
Looking down Pam's street - the houses are so cute!
Back in 1630 the Manor of Bridlington was purchased by the Lord Feoffees and this building also fell into their ownership. As well as being used for Manor courts until the 1880’s and as a prison until 1843, it was also the home of the Grammar School from the 17th century until 1818. Just to back up a bit though, as I walked from Pam’s house which was really close to the historic old town, I came across quaint little houses, a beautiful churchlike building – since I don’t know if it is a church – and its associated graveyard, which might be the one my grandmother is buried in (Pam will need to verify this) and a funky house. One thing I like about Bridlington is the significant lack of tall imposing buildings which helps this lovely little seaside town of 65,000 retain its old world charm.
This beautiful church structure at the cemetary
This really funky house right on the corner near the cemetary
So after enjoying the history of the Bayle Museum and running out of time before I had to catch my train, I quickly headed down to High Street. This is the main street of the old town. It mostly now consists of tea houses, antique stores, little boutiques and pubs and small businesses. You still get a real sense of how life might have chugged along when this was the centre of Bridlington.
Looking down Bridlington's old High Street
What’s interesting is that this part of Bridlington, which used to be its historical town centre, was actually referred to as Burlington. I did not find any reason as to why that was, but this is what I have read. It is not right adjacent to the seawall which is probably a good thing since the Great Gale of 1871 caused mighty damage to the area. Now the town centre sits closer to the seawall where all the amusement activity occurs. However, this time I did not get to the seawall and the promenade so instead you will have to enjoy my pictures of the old High Street. Next time though.
This neat old building, one of many, on High Street
The plaque identifying the building above
Next time you come, we will arrange for you to do the Ghost Walk in the Old Town, although I will not be joining you as I am told it is quite spooky and I am a wuss! Lol
Oh I love old Ghost Walks!
The building in the cemetary was a resting house, awaiting burial – it has not been used in a long, long time. The cute house next door, I believe was a vicarage but is now occupied by a lady who has a florist, I think!
Thank you! I think I read something as to what the cute house was but I forgot.