St Cuthbert’s Church, Carlisle
Location: Carlisle
St. Cuthbert’s Church, Carlisle, stands on the site of an earlier church dedicated to St. Cuthbert dating back to 685 AD. Throughout history it underwent reconstructions, with significant rebuilding in 870 and 1095. In 1644 Cromwell’s closure of the Cathedral resulted in St. Cuthbert’s becoming temporarily the sole church in Carlisle.
In 1778 the fourth rebuilding took place, that of the present church, in the Georgian style. All that remains of the older buildings is a 14th Century stained glass window. One extremely unusual feature is the pulpit, moveable on rails, and very tall so that the Vicar could preach to the galleries.
There are some stained glass windows telling the life of St Cuthbert on one side of the Church, and on the opposite side a window remembering Latvia, designed by John Rees of Carlisle College of Art in 1982.
Many interesting burials can be found in the churchyard, including executed soldiers from Bonny Prince Charles’ rising in 1745, and convicts from the City’s gaol.
The Tythe Barn, the Church Hall, was built sometime between 1485 and 1507, and has recently been restored after much neglect.
The aerial view above shows Prior’s Tower (centre left), the Fratry, and Carlisle Cathedral. Bottom right is St Cuthbert’s Church.
St. Cuthbert’s Church continues to hold regular services, welcoming parishioners and visitors to partake in religious ceremonies and explore its historical and spiritual significance. It is also the venue for several musical events, hosting a variety of choral and classical groups.
Contacts
St. Cuthbert’s Church, Blackfriars Street, Carlisle, CA3 8UE
Open every day from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
Telephone: Parish Office 01228 521982 Tithe Barn Bookings 07484081255
Email: [email protected]
Aerial photo by Simon Ledingham.
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Grid Ref NY 400558
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