Matterdale Church

Matterdale Church is a sixteenth century Cumbrian church which has served the local community since 1573. It is situated in the Parish of Matterdale, a broad valley west of Ullswater, within the Lake District National Park, surrounded by high fells and consisting of scattered farms and houses with three small hamlets the largest being Dockray. Matterdale Church is located at the geographical centre of Matterdale, midway between the communities of Dockray, Matterdale End & Ulcat Row.

The church is Grade II* listed by Historic England (entry number 1145247) and dates from the sixteenth century with the original roof timbers still in place. It has no formal dedication but was deemed to have been hallowed by the “reading of the word and the prayers of the faithful”. The interior is very simple with one stained glass window.

The building seats approximately ninety people in traditional Georgian pews. It contains the original font, probably 17th century, and the Greystoke font, probably Norman, given to Matterdale in 1705. It contains fine oak furnishings, including the 17th century communion rails, a two-decker pulpit and Parish clerk’s seat. The small tower was built in 1848 and at the same time the thatched roof was replaced by the present slate roof. The original graveyard was closed in 1935 and is now the responsibility of Westmorland & Furness Council. There is a new graveyard almost adjacent. The church has a good pipe organ with a regular organist. A small meeting room and toilet alongside the church were completed in February 2006.

The church is open each day and visitors are welcomed and encouraged to leave prayer requests pausing to reflect in the peace and sanctuary of a very special place. There are regular visits from tourist groups.

The current worshiping community appreciates its heritage and tradition and , acknowledges those who over many years have faithfully and prayerfully maintained a visible Christian presence in the valley.