Bayle Museum

Bayle Museum A Monastic Gatehouse housing a museum and collection of local artifacts. 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 is thought to have been a gatehouse to a castle built by William le Gros after he took control of the Bridlington Priory in 1143. In the 14th Century the Bayle was the Gatehouse to the 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 the 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.

Please note: the Bayle Museum will be closed on Thursday 14th May 2026.
13/05/2026

Please note: the Bayle Museum will be closed on Thursday 14th May 2026.

In 1953, a simple gardening task in Bridlington led to an extraordinary discovery. While tending to a plant pot, Mrs D. ...
30/04/2026

In 1953, a simple gardening task in Bridlington led to an extraordinary discovery. While tending to a plant pot, Mrs D. Melonby of Long Lane uncovered an old coin hidden in the soil.

The find was identified as a rare silver halfpenny from the reign of King Edward III, minted in London between 1344 and 1351.

The coin and the original newspaper report are on display as part of our Curious Collections exhibition.

The Bayle Museum open Monday - Friday, 11am - 4pm last entry 3.30pm including bank holidays.

A closer look at one of the fascinating items in our Curious Collection exhibition 👀This striking piece of regalia belon...
10/04/2026

A closer look at one of the fascinating items in our Curious Collection exhibition 👀

This striking piece of regalia belonged to the Ancient Order of Foresters, a society founded in 1834 to support working men.

Organised into local “Courts” and run by members for members, it played an important role in communities across the country.

The gold and enamel medal would have been worn during ceremonies, while this particular silver and gold medal was presented to Benjamin Young in 1869 — giving it a unique connection to an individual story from the past.

30/03/2026

Bayle Museum – Open on Bank Holidays

Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry 3:30 PM)
Admission: Free for all visitors
Exhibition: Explore our new display, Curious Collections

Step back in time at the Bayle Museum! 🏰✨We’re excited to introduce our brand-new dress-up area for children. Young visi...
27/03/2026

Step back in time at the Bayle Museum! 🏰✨

We’re excited to introduce our brand-new dress-up area for children. Young visitors can transform into a Romans, Vikings, Royalty and more.

We also have quizzes for children to enjoy as they explore.

The Bayle Museum is open from Monday 30th March 2026. Monday - Friday 11am - 4pm (last entry 3.30pm)

Sneak Peak! 👀Just a hint of what's coming: "Thinking of You... in glass. 💚 A Victorian love token from Nailsea is now on...
20/03/2026

Sneak Peak! 👀

Just a hint of what's coming: "Thinking of You... in glass. 💚 A Victorian love token from Nailsea is now on display. A perfect blend of romantic history and incredible craftsmanship.

This beautiful green example from the Nailsea Glassworks is a masterclass in functional art. See it up close at the Bayle museum.

Fun Facts:

- Produced at the Nailsea Glassworks near Bristol in the 18th century.

- They were often sold at country fairs or given by sailors to loved ones before departing.

- Because they were hollow, they were often used as storage containers; a standard-sized pin holds exactly one pound of tea.

- Bakers filled them with ice water to keep the glass chilled for the perfect flaky pastry.

👀 Sneak peek alert! Just a hint of what’s coming: a Mammoth’s molar from Sewerby Beach to the Bayle Museum.You don't see...
13/03/2026

👀 Sneak peek alert!

Just a hint of what’s coming: a Mammoth’s molar from Sewerby Beach to the Bayle Museum.

You don't see these every day—these teeth are thousands of years old!

Fun facts:

Mammoths had long, curved tusks that could grow to over 2 metres in length.

Fossils reveal their diet, age & journeys.

Mammoths were large mammals - the largest species of which could grow to around 4 metres tall!

Step back in time with the New Exhibition - Curious Collections

Charlotte Bronte once sat here!In 1839, Charlotte visited Easton House near Bridlington and saw the sea for the first ti...
06/03/2026

Charlotte Bronte once sat here!

In 1839, Charlotte visited Easton House near Bridlington and saw the sea for the first time - an experience that inspired her vivid observations of nature.

See the seat on display at the Bayle Museum and step into Bronte history!

The Bayle Museum's Curious Collections exhibition, opening Monday 30th March 11am-4pm.

Curious Collections - new exhibition opening 30 March 2026Inspired by the old fashioned “cabinet of curiosities” this ca...
03/03/2026

Curious Collections - new exhibition opening 30 March 2026

Inspired by the old fashioned “cabinet of curiosities” this carefully curated collection includes an intriguing variety of objects that bring history, mystery, and discovery together. Each object tells a story, - of love, of conflict, of craftsmanship and of the people who came before us. Look closely and see the extraordinary within the ordinary.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Bayle Museum!

The Bayle Museum is now closed for the winter season. We are Scheduled to open March 2026.
05/11/2025

The Bayle Museum is now closed for the winter season.
We are Scheduled to open March 2026.

Address

Baylegate
Bridlington
YO167JT

Opening Hours

Monday 11am - 4pm
Tuesday 11am - 4pm
Wednesday 11am - 4pm
Thursday 11am - 4pm
Friday 11am - 4pm

Telephone

01262 674308

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