Peak Experience

This impressive church probably dates from some time between 1130 and 1150, to judge from its Norman arcade and other fragments.  The imposing tower, which dominates the village around it, was added during the 1400s, when the church was rebuilt and enlarged.

 

A picture of the church at youlgreave A picture of the east window

 

The north aisle has a window made up of fragments of medieval glass brought back from the ruined cathedral at Ypres.  Edward Burne-Jones designed the Pre-Rapahelite stained glass east window, showing the four Gospel writers, and chancel south window.

 

The font dates from around 1200.  It has an unusual side stoup and, in fact, was not intended for this church at all but was brought over here from the church in Elton in 1838.  Elton church later made strenuous efforts to reclaim it, but to no avail, and a compromise was reached whereby Elton had to be satisfied with a replica of the font.

 

You’ll find the elaborate tomb of Thomas Cockayne in the chancel.  It is unusually small, because he died before his father.

 

A picture of the font A picture of the carved pilgrim

 

By the door, you’ll find a medieval carved pilgrim.  Legend claims a travelling friar created it, in return for the church’s hospitality.

 

The church registers date back to 1558 and record many significant national events since that time.  One entry notes the death of ‘Our most gracious soveraigne Lady Elizabeth quene of Englande, France and Ireland 1602 March 23’.

 

The church is kept open.  There is a post office in the Market Square, three pubs and a tearoom in the village.