St Mary's Church & the White Rabbit
Most visitors make straight for the Minster and never discover that the church at the other end of town harbours one of England's most charming literary secrets: a carved rabbit above the crypt doorway that is widely credited as the inspiration for Lewis Carroll's White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland. That alone is worth the five-minute walk.
A Church That Rivals Its Famous Neighbour
St Mary's was founded in 1120 and underwent continuous building work until 1530, which means its fabric is a glorious patchwork of Norman foundations, Early English arches, Decorated tracery and Perpendicular towers. Historic England lists it Grade I, and its west front — all crocketed pinnacles and intricate stonework — has been called 'unequalled in England' by admirers.
Historically, the church's turrets were lit at night to guide travellers safely across the dark expanse of the Westwood. Today its elegant tower still emerges from the trees to greet anyone walking into town from the pasture, just as it has for 900 years.
Hidden Secrets Inside
Seek out the carved rabbit on the doorway to the crypt — a pilgrim-era carving that Lewis Carroll is said to have seen on a visit to Beverley before writing Alice in Wonderland. Whether or not the connection is apocryphal, the little rabbit is delightfully easy to miss, which makes finding it feel like a reward.
Up in the central tower, the Priests' Rooms contain a cabinet of local curiosities including scold's bridles and stocks — a glimpse of medieval social control that puts the church's peaceful nave in sharp relief.
St Mary's Church & the White Rabbit on video
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