St Michael, Brough

About

Come and walk up the aisle of our beautiful and peaceful church and learn about the lives of the inhabitants of Brough under Stainmore.
St Michael’s has not always had such a quiet time.  Its close proximity to the castle 200yds away, meant it was targeted by William the Lion in 1174 and then by many raiding parties from the Scottish borders.

Become absorbed in the history which dates back to early Norman times and has earlier links to the Romans and later to Lady Anne Clifford. Or rest awhile in the peaceful setting indoors or out in the ancient churchyard.

Find the windows containing fragments of medieval glass, there are several fragments set into plain leaded windows, use your imagination to guess what they depict. There is a memorial to Lady Anne Clifford’s steward and also to a Roman commander who was stationed at the fort which stood on the castle site. More intriguing is a memorial to a 3rd century Syrian, named Hermes and aged 16 years.

In the tower are hung 4 bells which if rung are possibly the heaviest peal in the world, the heaviest weighing in at 19cwt! 

Brough under Stainmore has a history predating Roman settlement due to its position on the west side of a pass over the Pennines. Our display explains its life as a trading, resting and thoroughfare for travellers. It also has an industrial past in coal, lead and baryte mining. 

The churchyard is a source of much family history investigating, but also it is a place to sit and watch the clouds scud by, breathe in the fresh air and listen to birdsong. Be wary though and wear something warm as the wind can be bracing and invigorating.

Key Features

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

Visitor information

Walkers & cyclists welcome
Space to secure your bike
Parking within 250m
On street parking at church
Level access to the main areas
Dog friendly
Accessible toilets nearby
 

Opening Times

The church is open daily 10am to 4pm