St Stephen
Steeton with Eastburn, Yorkshire
St Stephens welcomes all, situated in the oldest part of the village.
Established beside the earliest river crossing, fragments of Saxon work speak of a church already established in 950. In 1086 the Domesday Survey lists Kildwick as one of the two churches in Craven. Norman stonework can be seen in the 14th century building that was then added to in the 15th century, and the foundation free long chancel built by the Tudors.
Ornate 17th and 18th century woodwork abounds. The 19th century leads to the story of the dramatic early 20th century rescue of the steeply leaning east end.
The extensive churchyard is home to five war graves, each with a poignant story to tell and the church green leads past the war memorial, past the pub with a similar ancient foundation, to the mediaeval bridge that still carries the road across the river Aire.