St Leonard's Church, Scarcliffe

St Leonard's Church is a medieval church building in Scarcliffe with Gothic Revival features including detailed stone carvings, stained glass windows, and a tower built in the 1830s. Inside you will find a carved stone basin, carved stone decoration above a doorway, and an unusually large oak chest that shows skilled medieval woodworking.

The building originates from medieval times and contains a significant marble monument from the 13th century showing Lady Constantia with a child. Later changes included construction of the tower in the 1830s and addition of stained glass windows during the Victorian period, reflecting how the church was renewed and updated.

The church is named after Saint Leonard, a patron saint of travelers and prisoners, and the community has gathered here for worship across many centuries. Local customs like the Christmas bell-ringing tradition show how this place remains woven into village life and memory.

The church holds regular worship services and welcomes visitors who wish to explore its architecture and interior details. It is best to check ahead for service times and plan time to look closely at the stone carvings and windows without rushing.

A remarkable feature is the Bellrope Charity, an old endowment created by Lady Constantia that still funds the ringing of a bell during the three weeks of Christmas. This long-standing tradition shows how one person's generosity shaped a custom that continues to define the village's seasonal rhythm.

Location: Scarcliffe

GPS coordinates: 53.21350,-1.25958

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:43