This 15th-century chapel is a rare and well-preserved example of a medieval chantry chapel. Built in 1360, it features a simple yet elegant design with a rectangular nave, a small chancel, and a bellcote at the west end. The chapel's exterior is constructed from local limestone, with a steeply pitched roof and a prominent buttress at the southeast corner. The interior boasts a striking medieval interior, complete with a vaulted ceiling, aumbry, and a piscina. The chapel's walls are adorned with ancient stone carvings, including a rare example of a medieval consecration cross. Despite being deconsecrated in the 16th century, St Mary's Chapel remains a tranquil and historic oasis, nestled in the rolling hills of the Peak District National Park.
This was at one point a larger chapel and also part of an estate but all that is left is a fairly intact chapel in a field on its own. It is looked after by the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT). It is advisable to have good footwear as, when I went, the field was still quite damp after the wet winter. There is a lay-by to park in very close as well. The chapel is quite basic inside but in good condition. It is likely survivors from the battle of Towton sheltered there as the chapel is within a mile of the site of the battle.
What a beautiful little chapel, plenty of history, well worth a visit
Very nice little chapel with lots of history to read about.
Beautiful little peaceful church
An absolute hidden gem, loved our visit here.
A beautiful little Chapel in the middle of a field. Great subject for photography. Watch where you are walking when the field is full of sheep, as there are lots of poo about. There is also the Crooked Billet pub, that serves delicious home made food at the entrance to the field. You will not be disappointed.
Wheelchair-accessible car park
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This was at one point a larger chapel and also part of an estate but all that is left is a fairly intact chapel in a field on its own. It is looked after by the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT). It is advisable to have good footwear as, when I went, the field was still quite damp after the wet winter. There is a lay-by to park in very close as well. The chapel is quite basic inside but in good condition. It is likely survivors from the battle of Towton sheltered there as the chapel is within a mile of the site of the battle.
What a beautiful little chapel, plenty of history, well worth a visit
Very nice little chapel with lots of history to read about.
Beautiful little peaceful church
An absolute hidden gem, loved our visit here.
A beautiful little Chapel in the middle of a field. Great subject for photography. Watch where you are walking when the field is full of sheep, as there are lots of poo about. There is also the Crooked Billet pub, that serves delicious home made food at the entrance to the field. You will not be disappointed.