On Lindsey’s birthday we decided on a gentle day, visiting some lovely churches in the nearby Dales.
Our next ancient church was St Mary’s, Long Preston. Also dating from the 14th century, the church was unfortunately locked when we visited but we enjoyed the exterior and the church yard.
Our first stop was the 14th century church in Giggleswick. Dedicated to the little-known St Alkelda, the church was built after the previous church was destroyed by Scottish raiders. Most of the windows in the church are 15th century and there are several other clues to its age.
The ancient village churches in Long Preston and Giggleswick were charming but, on this tour, we definitely saved the best until last. All Saints church in Ilkley dates from the 13th century but most of the interior features, including its fine windows, are Victorian. But just inside the church is a big surprise: three 8th century Anglo-Saxon cross shafts, all with exquisite carvings, mostly very well preserved. The crosses were previously in the church yard but were brought inside about 40 years ago to protect them from the risk of more erosion.
