The funding will help with restoration and enhancing the visitor experience
Beverley Minster has been awarded major funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The sum of £244,203 represents initial support for the Minster’s “Destinations” Project, for which it will be seeking a full grant of over £4.3m at a later date.
The ultimate aim of the initiative is to be able to save and share Beverley Minster, considered a beautiful heritage asset of international significance, well into the future. Some match funding for the overall project has been secured from the Friends of Beverley Minster and Beverley Minster Old Fund.
Two Churches One Town charity, who have been actively supporting the Minster in this scheme, also have a fund-raising initiative in place. Grant applications over £250,000 to the Heritage Fund are assessed in two rounds.
The Beverley Minster “Destinations” Project has been granted round one development funding to enable it to progress with its plans. Detailed proposals will then be considered by the Heritage Fund at the second round, where a final decision will be made on the full funding award.
The Beverley Minster project will restore the east end of the building, including roof and masonry repairs; conservation of the medieval east window and potential collaboration with York Minster to support stone masonry training and heritage skills. Externally, the east end grounds will be redeveloped into a biodiverse green space in partnership with Bishop Burton College.
Inside, visitor experiences will be enhanced through digital interpretation, virtual access, and improved catering with East Riding College. The Reverend Canon Jonathan Baker, from Beverley Minster, said: “We are thrilled to have received this initial support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
“Thanks to National Lottery players we can develop our plans for vital conservation work, community outreach and provide a meaningful contribution to the tourism, economic development and visitor strategy of our area.” Louise Sutherland, head of engagement, England, North at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to support Beverley Minster with the initial phase of their ambitious restoration project.
“Thanks to National Lottery players, they can continue to develop their plans to safeguard the building and the many stories held within its walls for future generations.” Extended educational and engagement programmes with SEND schools and care homes will include heritage crafts, history exploration, and wellbeing-focused activities.
A new events programme and upgraded lighting system will improve accessibility, sustainability, and financial viability. Beverley Minster’s musical tradition will be expanded through outreach in schools, promoting creativity, confidence, and personal expression in children and young people through choral singing across diverse genres.
From whichever direction the market town of Beverley is approached, the towers of the Minster dominate the skyline. The building is widely believed to be one of the finest Gothic churches in Europe and attracts more than 70,000 visitors each year.
Volunteers, local groups and schools will be able to take part in the “Destinations” Project through events and training opportunities, allowing even more people to enjoy and play a part in Beverley’s heritage.