Old St Matthew's Church, Lightcliffe

Old St Matthew's Church in Lightcliffe is a listed church building featuring a square stone tower with ashlar stonework on its exterior. The tower's west face displays a round-headed window and a circular window, while the surrounding churchyard contains thousands of graves cared for by the community.

The site originated as Eastfield Chapel in 1529 and was substantially rebuilt in 1775 by William Mallinson of Halifax. This reconstruction introduced Neoclassical design to the structure, transforming its appearance for the following centuries.

The tower holds memorial plaques marking people of local significance, including one for Ann Walker who had a notable relationship recorded in Yorkshire history. These markers reflect how the place remembers individuals who shaped the community.

The churchyard is freely accessible to visitors at all hours and provides pathways through the grounds for exploration. The site is actively maintained, so you may find maintenance work or volunteer activities happening during your visit.

A stone carved with an inscription from 1529 is built into the tower, preserving a direct link to the original chapel that stood on this land. The building also contains a monument from 1830 designed by sculptor Richard Westmacott, adding another historical layer to the site.

Location: Calderdale

GPS coordinates: 53.72450,-1.78960

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:05