St Michael
Baddiley, Cheshire
A 14th century Grade I Listed church in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.
Weathering has scoured some of the exterior stonework, adding to the character of the building, which is crowned by an octagonal bell tower.
Inside, the stonework is almost as pristine as it was when first built, and since most is 14th century it feels harmonious.
From the nave with is elegant piers and arches, a tall arch leads through to the choir and chancel. The choir stalls are of the same age as the church and are among the most splendid of their kind, with tall canopies and, underneath the seats, one of the most famous sets of misericords in the country. These include figures of two men wrestling, a fox in robes and with a hunting bow, and a birdlike creature with a human face for its rear end. The stone pulpit also dates from the 14th century.
Contemporary additions to the church include a set of kneelers, which include images of such things as tractors, cars and a diesel railway locomotive.