Scarborough St Mary’s Church

St Mary’s Church

The church dates back to around the year 1000, likely built on the site of a small Saxon chapel that existed within the partially ruined walls of a Roman signal station, predating the construction of a castle. It is possible that this chapel served as a beacon for coast-watching, assisting in the protection of the Saxon shoreline. A small fishing community settled around the harbor below the headland during this time. In 1066, both the settlement and the chapel were attacked and destroyed by fire.

The ancient Church of St Mary is situated on elevated ground leading to the castle. It may have once functioned as a consensual or monastic church, with its churchyard filled with tombs.

As Scarborough’s population grew, the church needed to be expanded to accommodate the increasing congregation. Initial additions included two prominent twin towers, followed by the establishment of north and south aisles. The foundational walls of the original church supported five solid circular pillars on the north side and three out of five pillars on the south side.
During the great siege, the church sustained significant damage; the transept experienced instability, and in 1659, the tower collapsed onto the nave, leaving the church in ruins. Ten years later, contributions from the parish enabled partial repairs to the structure.

1848 Restoration
In October 1848, the church underwent further restorations, during which several artifacts were discovered in the southwest tower, including a shrine crafted from fine white gypsum or alabaster. Traces of original paintings were found on several pillars in the nave, although their condition had deteriorated over time, making it difficult to identify the subjects depicted in the scripture's history.

Near the east end of the south aisle, close to the choir, remnants of a large iron crook, a gate-band, and an archway leading into the south transept were uncovered.

West of the transept, two low arches were likely the resting places of the founders of the chantry.
Beneath these structures were two stone coffins containing a few decomposed bones, likely dating back to the Middle Ages. Above these coffins, there was a cross and additional markings that included the inscription "Ora Pro Nobis."

Applegrove

Lodge No.10 Harrington providing access to lovely walking paths and a variety of wildlife right at your doorstep.

Lodge No 10

Ivanhoe Hotel

A family run pub and eatery, with rooms above.

Ivanhoe Hotel

Crafty Creations Cafe

Offers pot painting activities, making it a recommended option for indoor activities

Creations

Grind Coffee Shop

is a café, restaurant, and cocktail bar that encourages connection, creativity, and collaboration.

Grind Coffee Shop