Old Rectory

The Old Rectory in Warton is a ruin built from limestone and sandstone with walls that still stand to a significant height. The preserved structure shows traces of a great hall, service areas, and upper-floor chambers where the medieval household operated.

This structure was built in the early 14th century as a residence for the parish priest of St Oswald's Church. It was commissioned by the sons of a local nobleman named Lord Thweng and has stood in this landscape for roughly 700 years.

The site served as both a residence and a place where local courts met to settle disputes and conduct administrative business. This shows how religious officials held power over both spiritual and everyday matters in medieval villages.

The ruins are open year-round to visitors without any entrance fee and are maintained by English Heritage. The site sits near walking paths and is easy to reach on foot, though there is little shelter or shade once you arrive.

The gables of this ruin still reach their original medieval height, which is rare among structures this old and gives visitors a clear picture of the building's original shape. Few medieval ruins retain this level of architectural completeness in their upper sections.

GPS coordinates: 54.14425,-2.76816

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:41