Bridlington Priory Arms

The three "Bs" always evoke inquiries as to their meaning and origin. Neither can be answered with certainty. We know, however, that the armorial belonged to the Priory in the sixteenth century. The heraldic description is per pale, sable, and argent, three Roman "Bs" counter changed, two and one.

It is generally thought that the simplicity of the device and colours indicate its great antiquity. Probably the "B" has reference to the name of the place, and since it is threefold it may denote the Holy Trinity. Similar three-fold devices are to be found in the arms of Selby Abbey, which has three swans; Whitby Abbey three ammonites and Fountains Abbey three horseshoes.