St Alban
Tattenhall, Cheshire
Although there has been a church here since Saxon times, much of the story of Bunbury's church revolves around a colourful 14th century knight called Sir Hugh de Calveley.
Bunbury, Cheshire
Sir Hugh was said to be seven feet tall, with the appetite of two men and the fighting ability of 10. His tomb and effigy are in the church, still surrounded by the original spiked railings, eight of which were made to hold candles. He founded a college and chantry here in 1386 after a life spent as a fighting soldier, during which he had gained both fame and notoriety.
Much of the church was rebuilt or added to in the 15th century, with further subsequent work. Disaster struck in 1940 when an enemy bomber returning from a raid on Liverpool dropped a land mine that seriously damaged the church, including blowing out the windows.
Impassioned fundraising meant that the church was eventually fully restored, and this included new stained glass designed by Christopher Webb in the 1950s. The east window shows modern local scenes with people in 1950s clothes as well as biblical characters and scenes. It is bold, bright and colourful.
There is much else to see in the church, including the brightly painted tomb of Sir George Beeston, a descendant of Sir Hugh de Calveley. Like Sir Hugh, he was a warrior, best known for his role in fighting the Spanish Armada. He died in 1601, and was possibly as old as 101.
In the south aisle is a carved figure of Jane Johnson, who died in 1741. The figure was buried in the churchyard when a Rector took exception to the sculpture's generous figure. It was dug up and rescued in 1882.
Tattenhall, Cheshire
Baddiley, Cheshire
A 14th century Grade I Listed church in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.
Hargrave, Cheshire
We’re on many cycle routes and the terrain is perfect cycling country and also, if you’re on a narrow boat on the canal, you can walk from Golden Nook Bridge to find us.