There are over 600 bosses on St Mary’s ceilings. These curious carvings are a vibrant visual record of the lives, hopes and dreams of our medieval and Tudor ancestors – a way of storytelling without words.
We are preserving and interpreting this exceptional heritage as part of a project to restore the crumbling stonework of the north nave clerestory – a vulnerable area of the church, in which many of the bosses are housed. This marks the first phase in a major proposed programme of essential repairs to the building over the next ten years.
Blogs about the bosses, exploring their meaning
Documentaries about the history of Beverley told through the bosses
News, communications and press releases about the project
St Mary’s is a firm favourite among local schools for visits and study
Coming soon: a database containing information and ultra high definition photos of all 637 bosses, plus 3D images, interpretations and more.
Profiling and celebrating some of our wonderful volunteers
Images, stories and information from the skilled craftsmen carrying out the conservation works
Materials and activities to do and download, for education … and for fun!
The individuals and organisations with whom we are proud to work on this exciting project
St Mary’s curious carvings are inspiring people to get creative … see their handiwork here
The principles which guide us in our work on the project and the partnerships we make
The story of the project from its conception to delivery, including all major events along the way
Our strategic partner on the project
Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund