Nestled amidst the charming village of Lindal-in-Furness, where the air is filled with the sweet scent of freshly cut grass mingling with the fragrant blooms of cottage gardens, and the sounds of birdsong fill the air, sits a treasure trove of history just waiting to be explored. That treasure? None other than the magnificent St Peter’s Church. But this church is more than just a place of worship; it’s a captivating story waiting to be unravelled.
Let’s rewind the clock to the 1800s. Lindal, once part of the ancient parish of Dalton-in-Furness, saw a surge in its population as workers flocked to the area’s iron mines. To meet the spiritual needs of this growing community, church services began in the local schoolroom in 1861. Imagine the murmur of prayers and hymns rising from the small schoolhouse, mingling with the laughter of children playing outside. Later, in 1875, an iron church was erected to accommodate the growing number of worshippers. This structure served as a precursor to the grand stone edifice we see today.
A directory from 1882, Mannex’s directory of Furness & Cartmel, describes this iron church dedicated to St Peter as having enough space to accommodate 300 people. The directory also reveals that the present stone church was built by the Duke of Buccleuch and Messrs. Harrison, Ainslie & Co., and that the incumbent at the time was the Rev. L.O. Lewis, who resided at Lindal Mount, a parsonage gifted to the church.
And what a magnificent structure it is! Built in 1885-86 in the Gothic Revival style, St Peter’s is a masterpiece of red sandstone, topped with a graduated green slate roof. The church was designed by either Ewan Christian or James Murchie of Carlisle, with Murchie possibly acting as the executive architect. Take a moment to admire the steep gables, each adorned with a cross, and the intricate plate tracery of the windows. Notice the delicate lancets and quatrefoils that adorn the nave, and the impressive three-light window at the west end, framed by angled buttresses. And don’t miss the charming belfry with its octagonal spirelet, rising above the slate-hung roof. Picture the sun glinting off the red sandstone, casting long shadows across the churchyard.
Inside, you’ll be greeted by the soaring arches of the nave, the intricate carvings of the chancel arch, and the original wooden pews and pulpit. The chancel boasts a beautiful boarded, barrel-vault ceiling, adding to the sense of grandeur. Every detail, from the quatrefoil font to the communion rail, speaks to the craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating this beautiful space. Feel the smooth, worn surface of the wooden pews beneath your hands, and imagine the generations of worshippers who have sat here before you. #FurnessHistory #CumbriaChurches
So, next time you’re strolling through Lindal-in-Furness, perhaps as the bells of St Peter’s chime out a melodious tune that echoes through the village, be sure to pop in. Feel the cool smoothness of the ancient stone beneath your fingertips, and gaze upwards at the soaring arches of the nave. Not only is it a stunning architectural gem, but it’s also a testament to the rich history and strong community spirit of the Furness region. Who knows, you might even discover a hidden story or two of your own! Perhaps you’ll find an inscription on a forgotten tomb, or hear the whisper of the wind whistling through the ancient eaves… #Lindal #ExploreEngland