St Stephens, Kirkby Stephen

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St Stephens, Kirkby Stephen

St Stephens, Kirkby Stephen

Where is it – England, North West England

Who looks after it –  Church authorities 

What is it –  Church, Free access 

When is it from – Medieval

Although often referred to as St Stephen’s, Kirkby Stephen parish church actually has no official dedication. It is the 2nd largest parish church in Cumbria (Holy Trinity, Kendal, is the largest) and, being close to the Yorkshire Dales, is sometimes known as ‘the cathedral of the Dales’. The name ‘Kirkby’ (place with a church) is of Scandinavian origin, but it is thought the first church on the site was built by the Angles. The present church dates from the 13th century and has evolved from there. Items of interest include the 16th century tomb of Thomas Warton and his two wives, the 15th century tombs of two Richard Musgraves and, famously, part of a 9th or 10th century Anglo-Danish cross showing the Norse God, Loki – known as the Loki Stone. There is also some lovely stained glass. Outside is an impressive early 19th century cloister-like entrance. Although now an Anglican parish church, unusually, use of at St Stephen’s, Kirkby Stephen is shared between the Anglicans and Roman Catholics.

 


Address
Market Square, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria CA17 4QX 

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