St Helen

The current building dates from 1175, with major additions in 13th & 14th centuries, although there remains a Saxon stone font. The church can be seen for miles around with its distinctive tower of ‘Rotherham Red’ sandstone and limestone, possibly from Roche Abbey.

There is fine interior medieval stonework and carved woodwork, including green men and ceiling bosses. There are wonderful carved angels in the chancel. In the west nave wall there is a fascinating carved 13th century effigy of a knight. The windows contain lovely 19th century stained glass. The pews are Victorian but there are remains of 17th Century box pews in wall panelling. There is evidence of medieval painted decoration and some ‘graffiti’ in the form of a Saltire cross.

Plumbers’ marks have been salvaged following a spate of recent lead thefts and can be seen in the rear porch area. The bell tower mark is 300 years old.