Appleby: St Lawrence

Name:
Appleby: St Lawrence
Record Type:
Church
Church code:
607003
Diocese:
Carlisle
Archdeaconry:
Carlisle
Parish:
Appleby

Statutory Designation Information

Listed Building?
This is a Grade I Listed Building
View more information about this Listed Building on the National Heritage List for England web site
Scheduled Monument?
There is no Scheduled Monument within the curtilage or precinct

National Park

The church is not in a National Park

Conservation Area

The church is in the following Conservation Area: Appleby

Heritage At Risk Status

On Heritage At Risk Register?
This church is not on the Heritage at Risk Register
 

Approximate Date

Approximate Date:
Medieval

Exterior Image

St Lawrence exterior from south
Caption:
St Lawrence exterior from south
Description:
Year / Date:
08.04.2011
Copyright:
Originator:
John D Tillotson, PCC

Summary Description

Awonderful town church that sits within its graveyard behind the early 18th century classic cloistered entrance designed by Robert Smirke. The church is sited at the northern end of the town (which, in the centre, retains its medieval layout), counterbalancing Appleby Castle which is at the other end of the main street. The church building suffered from the ravages of border wars and, as a consequence, has been substantially repaired on several occasions. The church is predominantly 14th and 15th centurty with the lower stage of the tower and the porch, dating from the 12th and 13th century, being the earliest portions. The exterior conforms to Perpendicular patterns with the top part of the tower and the clerestory being particularly distinctive with gargoyles and battlements. The nave arcade comprises characteristic Decorated quatrefoil pillars supporting pointed arches but with an early 19th century ceiling. The chapel and chancel were built in the 17th century through the patronage of Lady Anne Clifford whose mother’s magnificent alabaster and black basalt effigy makes a delightful contribution to the character of the church. This piece of high art is the perfect counterpoint to the timeworn and gnarled C16 timber screens positioned behind the choir stalls. Another point of interest in the church are the boxed-in early 18th century corporation pews where the town's civic leaders and officers worshipped. Probably the most significant fixture is the 16th century organ, reputed by some to be the oldest working instrument in the country. It is a visual focal point with its renaissance decorations. The attractive Frosterley ‘marble’ font, prominent monuments to Lady Anne Clifford and her mother, other monuments to important residents of the town, some ancient wooden screens and good stained glass are also of interest.

Visiting and Facilities

The church is open for worship.
Church open to visitors on most days between 8am and 5pm - it is popular with tourists and visitors Bell ringing Live music and concerts Regular choir Guidebook available Wheelchair access ramp available
 

Church Website

Church Website:
http://www.achurchnearyou.com/607003

Sources and Further Information

Church of England (2021) A Church Near You https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/12199/ [Digital Archive/Index]
View information on worship and access at this church
John D Tillotson, PCC (08.04.2011) St Lawrence exterior from south [Digital Archive/Graphic material]
St Lawrence exterior from south
John Barnes (architect) () Layout plan [Digital Archive/Graphic material]
Layout plan
John D Tillotson (PCC) (08.09.2015) St Lawrence interior from west [Digital Archive/Graphic material]
St Lawrence interior from west
Church Buildings Council (2019) Church Bells 8 Bells [Archive/Index]
8 Bells