The streets of Beverley are lined with high street names but take a wander down some of the narrow side streets and you will find some independent boutiques full of beautiful treasures. There is also a lovely selection of gelato shops and trendy clothing stores.
A visit to Beverley isn’t complete without admiring the intricate church spires of Beverley Minster. The cathedral is a gothic masterpiece and one that should be on your list of things to do.
St Mary’s Church
During your visit to Beverley, don’t forget to pop into St Mary’s Church, one of the largest parish churches in England and a Gothic masterpiece. There is a massive carved Derbyshire marble font and on the pillar by the pulpit, five minstrels are depicted – it’s thought that this was a reference to Beverley’s powerful musician guild who contributed towards the rebuilding of the church.
You can also follow the town trail (with its 39 sculptures, some of which require patience to spot!) around Beverley’s historic centre from the North Bar to Beverley Beck. The trail points out historical details and tales of the past, plus there are fun activities for kids too.
The town centre is a pedestrianised area with plenty of high street names and boutique stores selling everything from homewares to fashion. Beverley has several arcades and independent shops too, some of which are tucked away on cobbled streets and are filled with beauitful souviners.
Beverley Memorial Gardens
Beverley has a large area of green space known as the Westwood where you can walk and picnic. It is also the location for Beverley Racecourse which hosts horse races throughout the year.
The town has a history of trades and guilds which you can explore on the trade trail around Beverley. The trail includes 39 sculptures (some are a little hard to spot) depicting the different trades and guilds that controlled different areas of the town in medieval times.
Beverley has a thriving shopping scene and if you come here on a Saturday don’t miss the market which has 120 stalls selling anything from arts and crafts to cut flowers and street food. It is a fantastic way to spend a day. You can also take in a show at the East Riding Theatre. The theatre is housed in a beautiful converted chapel. It has a great reputation for putting on a show that is entertaining and interesting.
Coronation Garden
When the sun is out, head to the town’s Coronation Garden for a relaxing stroll. This tranquil garden is located on North Bar Within and was built to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. It was once the burial grounds for St Mary’s Church and is still home to some of the original gravestones.
Beverley has a rich history of trades and this can be seen in the street art designs that are dotted around town on the ‘trade trail’. The trail consists of 39 unique sculptures and tells the story of Beverley’s past trades such as tanners and carpenters.
Beverley is a market town and this is evident on a Saturday when the streets are filled with 120 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to arts and crafts. If you’re looking for a bit of retail therapy then the town has many shops to suit all tastes including a posh Browns department store.
Trade Trail
The town’s quirky trail will have you strolling past 40 sculptures that depict the guilds of medieval Beverley. It is an excellent way to learn about the area in a fun and interactive way, and it’s sure to keep kids entertained. They’ll get to learn about armourers, butchers, jerkin makers, and musicians as they walk around the town.
You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops, high-end boutiques and a good selection of British high street brands in Beverley. Kiplingcotes railway station is also worth a look, with its old platform buildings, signal box, and the original station master’s house.
Beverley is just a short drive from Hull and York, making it the perfect place for a day trip. It’s a small, charming market town that has enough charm and personality to make you fall in love with it! Embrace your inner explorer and take the time to really appreciate all Beverley has to offer. You won’t regret it!
