The Bayle Museum

The Bayle Museum

The word Bayle is derived from the French Baille. Meaning "enclosure" or "ward"

Recent archaeological surveys of the Bayle have concluded that a large proportion of the building dates to the late 12th century. The initial use of the building is unclear although there is a possibility it may have been a gatehouse to a castle built by William le Gros after he took control of Bridlington Priory in 1143.

In the 14th century the Bayle was the gatehouse to Bridlington Priory; a porter lived inside the Bayle and monitored the comings and goings of the Priory. An Almoner also lived in the Bayle and distributed food and ale to the poor of Bridlington.

Since the dissolution of Bridlington Priory the Bayle has been used for many different purposes including a Prison, Court, School, Garrison, Non-Conformist meeting place, Town Hall and meeting room for the Lords Feoffees.

Today the Bayle is a grade I listed building and scheduled ancient monument, which makes it of great interest historically and architecturally.

The Lords Feoffees and the History of the Museum

The Lords Feoffees and Assistants of the Manor of Bridlington were created in 1636 when a group of townsmen purchased the Manor of Bridlington from Sir George Ramsey of Coldstream. The Lords Feoffees own the Bayle together with other property in the Manor and have been established as a charitable trust for over three hundred years.

The Augustinians, a distinguished antiquarian society, were formed in 1920 for "the purpose of collecting, recording and preserving the relics of Bridlington and District"
In 1928 both organisations collaborated to form a Trust to manage the newly created Museum at the Bayle. Many local items have been generously donated or loaned to provide a detailed social history of the town and its people.

The Lords Feoffees became sole trustees in 2000 and the following year instigated major refurbishment and appointed a curator. Entrance fees are subsided to encourage local people and visitors to learn the fascinating history of the Bayle and Bridlington.

Opening hours are 11am - 4pm Monday – Friday (last admission 3.30pm)

Admission: £1.00 for Adults
Children FREE (under 15 years) must be accompanied by an adult

The museum welcomes group bookings out of normal opening hours during the closed season and these can be arranged by calling the Lords Feoffees office on 01262 674308

Special rates are available for group bookings and school visits.
Visitors should be aware that access to the whole museum is via two staircases.
Free car parking is available directly outside the museum.

The Old Town of Bridlington is less than a mile inland from Bridlington seafront.

For all enquiries regarding the museum please contact
Telephone 01262 674308
Fax 01262 674308
E-mail address lordsfeoffees@btconnect.com
Address 64 High Street, Bridlington, East Yorkshire YO16 4PZ

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