St Mary's Church, Thornton-le-Moors

St Mary's Church is a medieval structure built from red sandstone with English Gothic architecture, featuring a five-bay nave, a three-bay chancel, and slate roofing. The building displays the typical layout of a fortified church from this period.

The current building dates from 1301 and replaced an earlier Saxon chapel mentioned in the Domesday Book. This continuity shows the long religious significance of the site.

The walls display eleven painted memorial panels and hatchments, likely created by the Randle Holme family from nearby Chester. These decorations tell stories of local families and their connection to this place.

The church key can be obtained from Hayrack Farm Shop, though visitors should be aware that access to the churchyard involves steps and sloping paths throughout. Comfortable footwear is advisable.

The original hammerbeam roof in the chancel remains intact, while the nave received a pitch pine roof during repairs. This mix of old and newer elements tells the story of how the building was adapted and cared for over time.

Location: Thornton-le-Moors

Inception: 14 century

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture

Made from material: red sandstone

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/St-Marys-Church-ThorntonleMoors-Cheshire

GPS coordinates: 53.26500,-2.83860

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21