St Patrick's Church, Bampton
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Most of Bampton Church as it is seen today, was built in 1726-1727 but it stands on a site where there has been a place of worship for as long as eight centuries. It is first mentioned in 1170 when it was attached to Shap Abbey and when the services were often taken by the canons of the Abbey. By 1291 Bampton was already a parish in its own right with a vicar whose stipend was £13-6-8d.
The present church consists of chancel, nave and aisles, with a west tower, all dating from 1726-27. The previous church which had become unsafe, was pulled down in 1726 and the new church built at an estimated cost of £1355-10-6d, the money being partly raised by means of a 'brief' ie an appeal throughout the churches in the land. The interior, remarkable for its double row of elegant oak pillars, was extensively altered in 1885 when a major restoration was undertaken. The principal work then carried out was the new roof with its 'arcade of oak' in Renaissance style, new tower and chancel arches and a rebuilt chancel with west window of three lights, oak reredos, choir stalls and panelling, organ chamber and vestry. The gallery, formerly at the west end of the church was removed although some of its woodwork is incorporated in the landing in the porch. The furnishings of the chancel date almost entirely from 1885 but the communion rails are obviously 1726-1727 if not earlier. The Tower contains five bells, the first two are dated 1729 and carry Latin inscriptions meaning 'To Gods Glory' and 'I call the people', the next two probably date from 1779, the tenor bell is the oldest and might be 16th century. The weather cock on the top of the Tower is an exact replica of the original and is dated 1726. EVENTS For service times, please see the What's On page. O Lord, we commit to you the work of this parish church and all those who come within its walls. May many find you here and go forth joyfully to proclaim your message and serve you in your world; for your honour and glory. SAFEGUARDING At St Patrick's we take safeguarding very seriously. To find out more please go to the High Westmorland Parishes website safeguarding page. |
St Patrick's Church, Bampton
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