Church of Christ the Consoler

Church of Christ the Consoler is a Gothic Revival building with grey stone walls, tall windows, and a tower topped by a slender spire that points toward the sky. The structure appears lean and upright, with decorative pointed arches and fine stone details that soften its austere exterior.

Lady Mary Vyner commissioned architect William Burges to build this memorial in 1871 following the murder of her son Frederick. The construction was funded with money that had been gathered in a ransom attempt.

Inside, marble carvings and stained glass windows by H. W. Lonsdale fill the space with color and light. The artistic details reveal how the building was shaped by personal loss and remembrance.

The building is generally open during daytime hours and has an entrance with steps that requires careful attention when entering. The heavy main door can be stiff and may need assistance to open.

The decorated organ case and wooden baptismal font cover were crafted by John Walden with carefully carved details depicting the baptism of Christ. These handmade pieces rank among the least noticed yet most skillfully executed elements inside the building.

Location: Skelton on Ure

Inception: 1871

Architects: William Burges

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

GPS coordinates: 54.10620,-1.45099

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:59