St Helen
Burghwallis, Yorkshire
A church has stood on this site since pre Saxon times.
In 1338 there is a record of an ordination in the chantry chapel of St John the Evangelist. It is believed for the next 200 years, the little church at Skelbrooke was served by two priests. The parish includes part of the ancient forest of Barnsdale, the celebrated haunt of Robin Hood. Robin Hood's Well, near Skelbrooke is the earliest known place name associated with the legendary outlaw.
The church suffered during the Reformation of 1549. The chantry chapel was pulled down and goods were confiscated from church. A fire in 1870 destroyed the church. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1872.
The tower was probably rebuilt in the 19th century but appears to retain much of the original stone. Two of the bells are medieval and a third was added much later in 1730.
Come and explore our lovely church in peaceful surroundings. Above the porch is a medieval coat of arms, carved in stone. Also see the remains of our rood loft staircase, a medieval canopied niche, wonderful stained glass, a fine mosaic reredos featuring the Four Evangelists and the chantry chapel, decorated with typical Victorian splendour.
The churchyard is interesting and a medieval grave survives in the northeast corner.
