St Andrew's Church

St Andrew’s Church stands at the southern edge of East Heslerton, a quiet village in North Yorkshire. The present building is the third church on the site and was designed by architect G. E. Street in 1877 for Sir Tatton Sykes. It remains largely unchanged since construction and is recognised as a complete example of Street’s original vision. The church is built from sandstone ashlar with a red-tiled roof and a tall stone spire rising 32 metres. Its exterior includes a north tower, an open porch, and a projecting baptistry at the western end. The church is notable for its well-preserved fittings and furnishings, all surviving from the 19th century. Inside, the chancel contains a painted polyptych altarpiece, a double sedilia, and encaustic tiled flooring. The font, pulpit, and wrought iron screen were all installed in 1877 and remain intact. The stained glass windows were made by Clayton and Bell, including one depicting the Creation behind the organ. Three bells cast by John Taylor & Co in 1876–77 hang in the tower. Outside, the churchyard is enclosed by a sandstone wall and features a lychgate designed by Street. A circular cross with a crocketed canopy stands among the graves, and an ornate iron lamppost adds to the setting. The church is now cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, though the lychgate, wall, and cross remain under parish ownership. The entire site offers a quiet place for reflection, surrounded by historic stonework and thoughtful design.