St Lawrence, Morland

About

Morland church has the only Anglo Saxon tower in Cumbria which is a remarkable survival and outstanding example of its type.

The top storey of the tower was added in the 17th century but the massive Saxon structure retains its original masonry, small round headed windows and an 11th century doorway opening into the nave.

The church evolved over the centuries with a 12th century nave housing a surviving Norman pier. The aisles and transepts are late 12th and 13th century and there is evidence of the mediaeval chancel although it was largely rebuilt in the 16th century.

The 18th century clear glass Georgian windows make the church very light and spacious. The east stained glass window dates from the early years of the 20th century.

There are several items of woodwork of historic interest including parts of mediaeval screens in the chancel with carvings of faces, perhaps of early church members! The communion rail, Poor Man's box and font cover all date from the 17th century and the font itself is dated 1662. The pulpit and sounding board date from the 18th century and there are some fine wall monuments and a hatchment from the same period.

The church was sensitively restored at the end of the 19th century and the Arts and Crafts woodwork is one of the notable features of the church.
War memorials commemorate the 16 parishioners who died in WW1, and there is also a memorial commemorating the fact that all the 60 parishioners who served in WW2 came back safely.

The church is a record of over 1000 years of church development in the region and one of the ecclesiastical treasures of Cumbria not because of special treatment from a single period or lordly whim but because of its continuity of representative quality development.

Key Features

Spectacular stained glass
Social heritage stories
Magnificent memorials
Glorious furnishings
Fascinating churchyard
Enchanting atmosphere
Captivating architecture
 

Visitor information

Steps to enter the church or churchyard
Ramp or level access available on request
On street parking at church
Non-accessible toilets in church
Dog friendly
 

Opening Times

Open from 9am to dusk every day.