Ninekirks

Ninekirks is a church built from red sandstone that stands beside the River Eamont surrounded by open fields. The location offers views across the landscape toward the Pennines and Lake District mountains.

The building was reconstructed in 1660 by Lady Anne Clifford, Countess of Pembroke, replacing an earlier Norman structure that once stood at this location. This rebuilding marked a major turning point in the site's long history.

The interior holds original wooden fixtures such as box pews, family pews topped with canopies, and a three-level pulpit that show how worshippers once occupied the space. These fittings reveal the social structure and daily religious practice of past generations.

Parking is available at Whinfell Park Farm, from where visitors walk roughly 1.5 km (1 mile) along a farm track beside the River Eamont. The route passes through working farmland, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Archaeological digs near the church uncovered a coin hoard dating between 400-600 AD, suggesting early Christian activity on this land. This discovery hints that the site held religious importance far longer than the standing building reveals.

Location: Brougham

Inception: 1660

Website: https://visitchurches.org.uk/visit/church-listing/st-ninians-brougham.html

GPS coordinates: 54.66280,-2.68470

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:45