St Cuthbert's Church Dufton

About

Separate from the village of Dufton, on the road to knock, St Cuthbert's church is a prominent feature within the landscape, its setting enhanced by its slightly elevated position and dramatic backdrop of Dufton Pike and the towering fells of the Pennines.

Tradition has it that this site is one where the monks from Lindisfarne rested, carrying the body of St Cuthbert, on their flight from the Vikings. Inside you will find illustrations of St Cuthbert’s life framed on the north wall.

As you approach the church, look for the traces of its medieval origins still woven into the fabric of the building. Although it was substantially rebuilt in 1784 when the tower, the chancel and the present windows were added to form the building you see today.

Inside, the high canted ceiling is formed of elegant stucco panelling, a hallmark of the 1784 restoration. The windows from the same period fill the interior with soft, coloured light through their lozenge shaped panes. Look also for the pitch pine pews with their fleur de lis ends, and the wood panelled west gallery with its tiered seating—features that speak of Georgian parish life.