Church of St Michael

St Michael’s Church stands in the quiet Derbyshire village of Stanton by Bridge. A Grade I listed building, it began as a medieval church with parts from the 11th to 13th centuries. In 1682 the rector Augustine Jackson rebuilt much of it. A later restoration between 1865 and 1866, directed by architect Ewan Christian and contractor John Wood of Derby, gave the church its present look. The nave and chancel received new roofs, old lime coatings were removed from the walls, and white varnished deal benches replaced the pews. A wooden bell turret gave way to a small ornamental one, and five stained glass windows by William Wailes were added. The church holds several notable memorials. William Sacheverell, who died in 1558, Richard Francis from 1530, Richard Sheppard from 1728 and Thomas Shipton from 1711 are all commemorated inside. It also contains a pipe organ built by Brindley & Foster. The building belongs to a joint parish that includes St Michael with St Mary’s in nearby Melbourne, St James’ in Smisby and St George’s in Ticknall. Inside, visitors find an open interior with white benches and clear walls. The five Wailes windows cast coloured light across the nave. The small bell turret stands above the west end. Outside, the church sits among the village’s stone cottages and lanes, offering a calm place to pause.