Voted one of the best places to live in the UK, Beverley is also one of Yorkshire's best kept secrets. Renowned for its exquisite 13th Century Minster, the town is home to a lively market, a thriving music scene, excellent flat racing and a mediaeval skyline that remains refreshingly unspoilt.
Welcome to Beverley
Beverley first became a tourist destination in the 12th Century and the town's pretty cobbled streets and courtyards continue to attract history buffs, music lovers, racegoers and shoppers. For a perfect introduction, head for landmarks like the Minster, St. Mary's Church and the market. Then, experience some of Britain's finest flat racing, or dip into one of the many acclaimed local restaurants. And if all that seems a little too energetic, escape to the wildflower meadows of Westwood and the Yorkshire Wolds.
Boutique shopping
Beverley provides quite an upmarket shopping experience in a beautiful and historic setting. It in lined with cobbled streets and charming courtyards, all contributing to a sense of charm and affluence. The hustle and bustle of this market down strikes a perfect harmony between past and present, offering an array of things to do. The town centre has many high street names including Monsoon, Jaeger, Burtons, Lakeland, Laura Ashley and M&S. Away from the household brands though, Beverley is famous for its market. The Saturday Market provides a vibrant and friendly atmosphere, each week proving to be as lively and colourful as the one before. As well as the market there's also many smaller, independent shops. Antique shops and craft arcades are tucked away down the narrow streets, amongst a pub on every corner brimming over with history and atmosphere.
Local history
Widely regarded as one of Europe's finest Gothic churches, Beverley Minster is famous for its abundance of 13th Century stone carvings, stained glass and decoration. Nearby, St. Mary's Church is also blessed with many architectural wonders and oddities. For a taste of mediaeval Beverley, take the colourful town trail, or browse the bustling streets of Toll Gavel, Ladygate and Hengate on market day. Then, soak up the atmosphere in one of Beverley's many historic pubs.
Leisure and culture
Horse racing has been a part of Beverley life since the 16th Century and the course is known for its regular flat racing and family-friendly race days. The picturesque town centre is also a good place to shop for designer style and the mediaeval market is an ideal spot to pick up local cheese, sausages and crafts. If you love live music, you may also want to make a date with the Beverley Folk Festival or the Early Music Festival and catch some of Britain's best live performers.
Beverley Folk Festival
The Beverley Folk festival comprises of 3 nights & 2 days of: Concerts, Dance, Comedy, Film, Literature, Poetry, Family & Youth Events, Workshops, Craft Fair, Food Outlets, Real Ale Bars, Camping and lots more! And to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2013, the festival is moving to a new site - Beverley Racecourse. Headlining this year are The Proclaimers, and Show of Hands featuring Miranda Sykes. See the Beverley Folk Festival page for more information.