St Michael
Kirkby Thore, Cumbria
An important parish church, 14th century with many later changes clearly visible inside and out, in a fine setting between the River Eden and the North Pennines.
With parts dating from the 12th century, All Saints' church is a quiet spot in the attractive village of Bolton. It is Grade I listed, with a number of surviving Norman features, notably the south doorway and, above a former doorway on the north wall, an unusual carved stone depicting two Norman knights on horseback, tilting at one another. A modern image of the stone can be viewed on the noticeboard inside. The 17th century font cover and early 20th century chancel screen, with its decorative tracery, are also notable. The church was restored in 1848 and at various points in the 20th century.
The parish is currently engaged on a programme to correct the mistakes of past decades (such as unsuitable cement pointing on the west end) and ensure that the church survives in the form that it was originally intended to take.