This is a unique opportunity to visit three very different buildings telling the story of the development of religion in one community over four centuries. Guides will be on hand to explain the major features and answer questions.
The two churches and the chapel are only a short walk from each other and all three can be visited in a single afternoon with sufficient time to explore the distinctive features of each building. Visitors usually begin with the Methodist Church on Eastgate, a gem of a building dating from 1896 known locally as ‘The Cathedral of the Dales’. The church has beautiful stained glass by the leading firm of Heaton, Butler and Baine dating from when the church was built, and an outstanding modern window from 1990 by York artist Sep Waugh. There is also a splendid Abbot & Smith organ. The church will be open from 1pm to 4pm and refreshments will be available.
Walk along Eastgate to The Cross and turn down Church Hill and you come to the beautiful Parish Church of St Giles, built from local stone from The Chevin, and dedicated in 1881, replacing Bramhope Chapel as the Anglican place of worship. Inside this beautiful building you will be able to read about the Rhodes/Darwin connection and other local families, as well as finding fine stained glass and furniture by Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thomson. Come inside and explore over 140 years of history. The church will be open from 2pm to 4pm and refreshments will be available.
Take care crossing the A660 Leeds Road to the Grade 1 listed Puritan Chapel built in 1649 by Robert Dyneley. The Chapel is adjacent to the Britannia Hotel. Step back in time in this rare example of a chapel constructed specifically for Puritan Worship, one of only two religious buildings erected in England in the period of the English Civil War and the rule of Cromwell. This highly atmospheric building features an elevated pulpit from which the minister could look down on the occupants of the box pews to ensure they paid attention during the long sermons. The Chapel is on Leeds Road adjacent to the Britannia Hotel. Open from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.
No booking is needed. Just turn up. But do allow yourself time to see all three of these heritage gems.
Further details can be found on the Heritage Open Days website at https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/