On the edge of the hamlet of Aldfield, near Ripon lies the beautiful Anglican church of St Lawrence the Martyr. There has been a church standing on this site since the 13th century though the present building largely dates from the late 18th century. The building has remained virtually unaltered since that date retaining its boxed pews and splendid three decker pulpit. It lies in a lovely tranquil setting and enjoys marvellous views across unspoilt countryside. The church interior has seen much renovation work in recent times including the re-roofing of the vestry, repairs to the leaded windows, rebuilding of boundary walls and general interior re-decoration. It stands in quite extensive grounds and has a burial site which is sensitively maintained to encourage wild flowers, bird life and insects. All this has been achieved by a dedicated band of local helpers.
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St Lawrence Church, Aldfield, Near Ripon, North Yorkshire
A Grade 2* Listed Building
Aldfield lies approximately 4 miles from Ripon and 13 miles from Harrogate. Take the B1188 from Ripon towards Pateley Bridge. Follow this road and take a left turn half a mile beyond the turning to Fountains Abbey Visitors Centre. Follow this road for half a mile and the church is on your right hand side. After visiting St Lawrence's you can if you wish continue your journey to Fountains Abbey and enjoy two great visits on the same day!
The church is included in Simon Jenkins’ book “England’s Thousand Best Churches” published in 1999.
Aldfield Church is in the Diocese of Ripon and Leeds and is one of the churches within the Fountains Group of Churches. The incumbent is Father Robert Sellers, Rector of the Fountains Group of Parishes and he can be contacted at Weekly services are held at St Lawrence's and the current schedule is displayed on the Service page. All are very welcome at any of the services.
This poem has been written and published by the late Mr Geoff Walker and is taken from a book of his poems entitled 'Tossed to the Overgrowing Years' (Athena Press 2008).
THE CHURCH OF
ST LAWRENCE, ALDFIELD
Unadorned; austere as a church should
be.
A bell to toll in times of grief.
Standing proud in a quiet way.
Ringed about with ancient stones -
Man's hope of immortality.
Requiescat in pace:
May they rest in peace.
