All Saints, Boltongate

About

Described by Nicholas Pevsner as “one of the architectural sensations of Cumberland.”

The present church is from about 1400 but there is ample evidence of an earlier Norman Church.  The plinth; base of the tower; nave; chancel, and two doorways are 12th century.  Made from ashlar blocks it has a stone parapeted roof, from the outside it looks perpendicular in style, but it is the interior that makes this building unique to English parish churches. 

Inside is an unusual stone vaulted nave and transepts, entirely foreign to English Gothic architecture   Comparable tunnel-vaults can be found in Scotland and are common in the South of France. 

Approached along a path through a well-tended avenue of yew trees, All Saints offers stunning views across the back of Skiddaw.   To the right is a sundial erected in 1747 and to the left of the entrance porch is a stone effigy of a lady.  Her hands are clasped to her breast, with her head on a cushion. The details of the dress seem to point to the time of Edward III (1327 – 1377).  It is possibly a 14th Century coffin lid.

The large perpendicular windows contain stained glass by Charles Kempe; the window on the South side of the nave, of St Paul with female Virtues.  The lower west window by another successful 19th Century artist, Thomas Willement.  The East windows, in the Scottish style, includes an image of a pelican feeding her chicks – a Christian symbol representing Christ. The north transept boasts a 21st century millennium window.  Four primitive heads hold up the octagonal font.  

Key Features

Spectacular stained glass

Social heritage stories

Magnificent memorials

Glorious furnishings

Fascinating churchyard

Enchanting atmosphere

Captivating architecture
 

Visitor information

Level access to the main areas

Car park at church

Café in church

Accessible toilets in church
 

Opening Times

Open daily.