St. Kentigern's Church, Aspatria

St Kentigern’s Church stands in the quiet village of Aspatria, Cumbria, beside the route once taken by St Kentigern in the 6th century. Built of local red sandstone with a slate roof, the present church dates from 1848 and replaced a succession of earlier buildings. It belongs to the Anglican diocese of Carlisle and is listed at Grade II* by English Heritage. The architects Travis and Mangnall kept key features of the old church, including a Norman doorway and chancel arch. The tower at the west end rises above the nave, aisles and chapel, all arranged in early English style. The church’s interior holds fine stained glass showing the Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension. A stone pulpit and reading desk flank the chancel arch, while open pews with finials line the nave. The Musgrave Chapel contains monuments to several baronets of the Musgrave family, including Sir William Musgrave, fellow of the Royal Society and trustee of the British Museum. A 1749 inventory records silver plate still in use, and a modern Newcastle set dates from 1840. The tower houses a ring of eight bells installed in 1898 with help from local children and Sir Wilfrid and Lady Lawson. Outside, the churchyard contains a monument to Sir Richard Musgrave, 4th Baronet, fixed to the wall. Nearby stands the restored font, its defaced carvings filled with plaster and covered in lead. The whole building is beautifully proportioned, with lofty arcades and a high roof that fills the interior with light.