Owthorne was originally a separate town to the north of Withernsea, one of many settlements that have been lost to coastal erosion.

Old Withernsea was largely destroyed in the 15th century, making Owthorne the major of the two settlements.

However, large parts of it also fell victim to the sea in the 19th century.

[2] When modern Withernsea expanded, it absorbed the remains of Owthorne in 1891.

Salvaged stones from its ruin were probably used to build St Mary's church at Rimswell.