Wythburn Church

Wythburn Church is a stone building in Lakeland with a simple rectangular layout and a small chancel added in 1872. The interior displays traditional English ecclesiastical architecture with modest furnishings and fittings typical of its era.

The building was constructed in 1640 and completely renewed in 1740 to meet the growing needs of the congregation. After the Thirlmere reservoir was created in 1894, it became one of the few structures that did not disappear underwater while the surrounding village was abandoned.

The church served as the spiritual center for the village of Wythburn and remains a gathering place for local people during important occasions. Visitors can sense the connection to former inhabitants who held celebrations and ceremonies within these walls.

The building is accessible to visitors year-round and can be explored independently without prior arrangements needed. The location in the mountains means comfortable shoes are recommended, as the approach is on foot and weather can change quickly.

The location sits right beside the Thirlmere reservoir, where the graveyard surrounding the church remains visible today. This makes it a moving place where visitors can understand the story of the lost community that was sacrificed for Manchester's water supply.

Location: St John's Castlerigg and Wythburn

Inception: 1640

Architects: Charles John Ferguson

Website: http://cdyc.org.uk/churches/wythburn-church.html

GPS coordinates: 54.51300,-3.04510

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:48