The current building dates from the 15th century but a 12th century Norman chapel stood on the site prior to this. Reports of an earlier 8th century Saxon chapel are unconfirmed. The church is dedicated to St Michael the Archangel, and in earlier times it was also dedicated to St Mary. It is a Grade I listed building which is included in the book ‘England‘s Thousand Best Churches’ by Simon Jenkins.
Exterior
One of the most striking features of St Michael’s is the unusual lookout turret at the southeast corner. Originally used to warn of raiders during border conflicts, it worked alongside Heiferlaw Peel tower, four miles to the north, which had a clear view of the borders and could signal early warnings. In the early 19th century, the turret was repurposed amid fears of a possible landing by Napoleon’s army, as part of a nationwide beacon system.
The church’s main tower, standing proudly at the west end, is built on deep foundations that extend 30 to 40 feet below the surface. With its sturdy, battlemented design, it adds to the church’s imposing medieval presence.
Interior
Inside, St Michael’s holds a fascinating blend of historical and artistic treasures. Two statues, discovered during the 1818 restoration, now stand in the church — though their original heads were missing, modern replacements have restored their presence. One represents Henry VI, while the other is thought to depict either Saint Sebastian or Maurice, a local saint martyred by the Danes.
Several medieval grave slabs are built into the walls, the oldest dating back to the 13th century. Below the west window stands a beautifully crafted modern font, made from Kilkenny blue-black limestone by David Edwick of Hexham — a gift marking the new millennium.
Nearby, a small window preserves fragments of 14th-century medieval glass, offering a rare glimpse into the past.
St Michael’s stained glass windows are a highlight, described by Nikolaus Pevsner as ‘an uncommonly complete and enlightening survey of 19th-century glass’. These works include pieces by renowned artists and studios such as Clayton and Bell, Lavers and Barraud, James Powell and Sons, and Ward and Hughes.
At the east end, St Catherine’s Chapel holds a striking pillar featuring the Percy and de Vesci coats of arms and a carving of St Catherine and the wheel on which she was martyred. Known as the Hotspur Capital, it honours the legendary warrior Harry Hotspur, son of the First Earl.
14th-century medieval glass
