Doncaster Minster
Doncaster, Yorkshire
It is known that the church occupies the same site as the Roman fort of Danum.
The present spelling was first recorded in 1473. Between 1180-1200 the church was a simple structure of nave and chancel.
All that remains is the west wall showing typical herringbone masonry of the early Norman period. The tower was added in the 13th century. Between 1200-1250 the north aisle was added. The outer masonry a three bay arcade has circular piers, circular abaci and double chamfered arches survive from this period.
Between 1300-1350 a south aisle was added, the nave was extended and a new chancel was built. The spectacular east window has five lights.
There are many things to see in this delightful church. The Mensa (original stone altar) was let into the chancel floor for many years, but has been restored. There is a double piscine and sedilia in the sanctuary and an east sepulchre on the north wall.
The Chapel of Our Lady has straight headed windows with ogee headed lights dates from the mid 15th century and there are some 14th century glass fragments in the west window. The church also contains and interesting alms box, made of bog oak, a consecration cross, built into the wall, carved heads and two monuments by Chantrey. It is well known for its memorial tablet to George Byard a captain in Cromwells army. He is buried in the church.