Holy Trinity
Langdale, Cumbria
Nestling in the heart of the Langdale Valley, Holy Trinity is a fine example of a country Lakeland church and is home to the much admired Millennium Tapestry depicting the history of Langdale.
It is named after St Oswald, a 7th century Christian king of Northumberland, who is said to have preached on this site.
The tower, porch and south wall are all that remain of the 14th century church.
In around 1500, the north wall was punctuated with a striking arcade to create an aisle and enlarge the church. It was not until 1841 that the church floor was flagged, prior to that it was earthen and parishioners were simply buried beneath it. The baptistry window depicts St Oswald, and two of the south windows are by the famous Pre-Raphaelite artist Henry Holiday.
Every year, Grasmere celebrates its Rushbearing Festival, a custom dating back to the days when the earthen floor was strewn with rushes, both for warmth and cleanliness.