Lead Chapel

Lead Chapel, St Mary's Lead, the Ramblers Church

Lead Chapel

Where is it – England, Yorkshire and the Humber

Who looks after it –  Churches Conservation Trust 

What is it –  Church, Deserted settlement, Free access 

When is it from – Medieval

Lead Chapel, technically St Mary’s, Lead, is on the site of a deserted medieval village. The chapel was once the chapel of Lead Manor, which has vanished, and dates from the 12th century (though there may have been an earlier church on the site). Nearby is the location of the Battle of Towton (1461), the bloodiest battle in British history – it is said that Cock Beck, which you cross to get to the chapel, ran red with blood. Lead Chapel contains medieval grave slabs and 18th century furnishings and texts. Falling into a state of decay, it was rescued and restored by a group of walkers in 1931/32 and has been known as the Ramblers’ Church ever since.

The postcode is that of the Crooked Billet pub, which is opposite the chapel.

 


Address

Saxton, Nr Tadcaster, North Yorkshire LS24 9QN 

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