St Michael and All Angels, Beetham

About

The beautiful Grade I church we see today, situated by the River Bela, is the result of additions and adaptations through the centuries.
Mass dials, masons marks, medieval stained glass, a fine Forster & Andrews organ, tower bells and gravestones dating to the 17th century provide fascinating glimpses into the history of the church, the village and the surrounding area.

Built in early and late Norman and Early English Decorated style. The stonework of the lower part of the tower is 11th and 12th century, but the top part containing the tower bells was added in the 16th century. 

Fragments of medieval glass can be found incorporated in windows in the Lady Chapel. One window depicts Henry Bolingbroke in the role he later filled, King Henry IV. Included in the window are the Arms of the Stanley Family. Thomas Stanley was created first Earl of Derby by King Henry VII. There is a Stanley Street in Beetham to this day. A more recent window commemorates the Clegg brothers who were killed at Galipoli within weeks of each other in 1915.
The Middleton Tomb, shows two effigies, a man in armour and a woman wearing a cloak. They are thought to be Sir Robert Middleton of Leighton Hall and his wife, Anne, daughter of Roger Beetham.

The church has long been the focus of village life. The local market was held in the churchyard up until the middle of the 17th century, following the granting of a charter for a market and a fair in the village by Edward IV in about 1480.

The high ceiling, with its clerestory windows, the spacious nave and side aisles, together with the chancel and Lady Chapel provide a quiet and restful atmosphere for solemn contemplation or just to rest weary feet.

Key Features

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

Visitor information

Steps to enter the church or churchyard
Space to secure your bike
Ramp or level access available on request
Parking within 250m
Level access to the main areas
Dog friendly
Church shop or souvenirs
Café within 500m
Accessible toilets in church
 

Opening Times

Open daily from 9am to dusk.