Church of St Anne

St Anne’s Church stands in the small village of Over Haddon, Derbyshire, on the edge of the Peak District. Built between 1879 and 1880, it is a Grade II listed parish church designed by H Cockbain of Middleton. The church sits in Ricklow Dale, its walls made of local stone with freestone details from Sheldon Moor. Inside, Maw’s tiles cover the nave and aisle, while polished marble mosaic paves the chancel and baptistry. The bell was cast by Mears and Stainbank, and the benches were made by J. Heywood of Manchester. The church is worth visiting for its craftsmanship and the skill of its makers. The foundation stone was laid by Miss M. Nesfield, daughter of R.W.M. Nesfield of Castle Hill, Bakewell. Contractors Messrs. J.R. and A. Hill of Tideswell and Litton carried out the work. The wrought iron gates were made by Messrs Thomason of Birmingham and Manchester, and the stone carving was done by Mr. Ash of Buxton. It was consecrated by the Bishop of Lichfield on 26 July 1880. Inside, visitors find a simple yet elegant interior. The nave and aisle have patterned tile floors, while the chancel floor is laid with polished marble mosaic. The baptistry floor matches the chancel, and the steps are made of Bardilla marble. The organ, installed in 1988 by the Johnson Organ Company, adds to the church’s musical heritage. The building remains a quiet and thoughtful place, set against the rolling hills of the Peak District.