Cautley Chapel
Sedbergh, Cumbria
Striking in its symmetry with its central round headed doorway flanked by matching round headed windows, Cautley Wesleyan chapel is a good example of its type and date.
This is hill farming country and the scenery is spectacular, with soaring fells, lush pastures and traditional stone farmhouses. The view from the churchyard is stunning. Ten miles further north is the impressive waterfall Cautley Spout.
St Mark's was designed by the eminent victorian architect, William Butterfield, and was one of his earliest commissions.
Butterfield's love of the Gothic style is evident in the building. The impressive roof consists of 31 sets of trussed oak rafters, which is a medieval design favoured by Butterfield because of its even appearance. The font was also designed by Butterfield, as were the two original pews at the back of the church. All the other pews, the panelling and the screen were added at the beginning of the 20th century.
The small pipe organ is a Scudamore, built by Henry Willis. The simple design of the building and its peaceful atmosphere make it an excellent place for silent prayer and meditation. There is a simple stone labyrinth behind the church and the delightful churchyard contains many species of wild flowers.
