St Michael's Church

St Michael's Church is a stone church in the village with a slate roof and a central tower in the Norman style. The interior is divided by octagonal pillars that support three arcade spans, giving the space its distinctive framework.

The building was founded around 1150 and expanded in the 13th century with a south aisle and arcade system. A north aisle was added later around 1300, completing the layout that remains today.

This building has served as a gathering place for the community throughout the centuries and continues as an active place of worship today. The interior reveals how people have left their marks through furnishings and decorations added over generations.

The church is active and open to visitors, particularly during service times when you can experience the space properly. The churchyard surrounding it contains old monuments that you can walk around and view.

The central Norman tower design sets this church apart from other medieval churches in the Cumbria region, making it architecturally unusual. Few visitors realize this tower is a rare feature that distinguishes it among buildings from the same era.

Location: Barton and Pooley Bridge

Inception: 12 century

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture, Norman architecture

Website: http://bartonpooleymartindale.org.uk/barton

GPS coordinates: 54.62980,-2.79540

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:03