YorkshireWELWICKStMary(richardcroftCC-BY-SA2.0)1 RichardCroft

St Mary

Off the beaten track on the gloriously remote Holderness peninsula, discover a 14th century tomb and associations with the Gunpowder Plot.

Welwick, Yorkshire

Opening times

Open during daylight hours.

Address

Welwick
Yorkshire
HU12 0RX

The 14th century tomb stands in the south aisle and is astonishing. It bears a distinct resemblance to the fabulous Percy tomb at Beverley Minster. But, the Welwick tomb doesn't have any apparent dedication. It has an elaborate ogee canopy, with extravagant decoration. In the niche is a highly decorated table with an effigy in long robes. It was originally thought to be a woman but is probably a cleric in vestments.

There is a long held tradition that it is a member of the Albermarle family. Others think it could be William de la Mare, Provost of Beverley Minster between 1338 and 1362.

Beside the tomb is a 13th century stone coffin found under the chancel. There is also a fragment of 14th century coffin lid found at nearby Plowlands Farm. Finally there is a very fine brass set into the floor. The brass commemorates William (d1621) and Ann Wright, of Ploughland, and shows Ann wearing an Elizabethan ruffed collar and an elaborate headdress.

William Wright had stepbrothers named John and Christopher Wright. Both attended St Peter's School in York, Christopher attended at the same time as Guy Fawkes. Both brothers became involved in the Gunpowder Plot and tradition suggests that Plotters' Barn, near Ploughland Farm, was used as a meeting place by the conspirators. It was Christopher Wright who discovered that the Plot had been revealed, and the brothers fled to Holbeche, in Warwickshire.

Other features of note at Welwick include the east window, with lovely Victorian stained glass. The chancel screen dates to 1460-1480 and the 17th century porch has a much worn carving of the Madonna and Child in a large canopied niche above the entrance.

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Famous connections

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Magnificent memorials

  • National heritage here

  • Social heritage stories

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Wildlife haven

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Dog friendly

  • Level access to the main areas

  • On street parking at church

  • Parking within 250m

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Church of England

Contact information

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