St Andrew’s Church Penrith
The town of Penrith is one of the oldest in the North and figured prominently in the wars between the Scots and English.
St Andrew’s Church, in the town, is a unique design for Cumbria.
The Parish church was established in 1133 and was rebuilt in 1722 after a fire had damaged the earlier building.
The oldest part of the present building is the 13th/14th-century tower.
The architect is believed to have been Nicholas Hawksmoor, a pupil and colleague of Sir Christopher Wren.
The church contains portraits of Richard III’s father and mother in stained glass.
Giant’s Thumb
Outside Penrith’s Parish Church of St Andrew are three sandstone objects.
The largest is known as the ‘Giant’s Grave’.
It is thought to mark the grave of Owen Caesarious, King of Cumbria from 970 to 937.
The Giant’s Grave and two stone pillars (obviously ancient cross-shafts) stand at the head and foot of the grave, with four other stones (hogbacks) at the sides.
They are now thought to be pre-Norman and the earliest remains of Christianity in Penrith.
Nearby is the ‘Giant’s Thumb’, an old Norse single cross dated around 920 and believed to have been erected by Owen Caesarious as a memorial to his father. It is so called from two holes at the top, said to be the size of the giant’s thumb.
The stones are covered with pre-Norman carvings.
If you are looking for a holiday in the South Lakes area, Lothlorien in Grange-over-Sands has easy access to Penrith by the M6 motorway.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🏰 1. What is St Andrew’s Church in Penrith famous for?
St Andrew’s Church, located in the centre of Penrith, Cumbria, is famous for its striking 18th-century Georgian architecture and its ancient “Giant’s Grave” and “Giant’s Thumb” monuments in the churchyard. These mysterious stones attract visitors interested in history, legend, and archaeology.
📍 2. Where is St Andrew’s Church in Penrith?
St Andrew’s Church stands right in the heart of Penrith, on St Andrew’s Place, just off the main shopping area. Its tall, impressive tower makes it easy to spot, and it’s within walking distance of Penrith railway station and local car parks.
🕰️ 3. When was St Andrew’s Church in Penrith built?
The current St Andrew’s Church building dates mainly from the early 18th century, around 1720–1722, although parts of the tower are medieval. The church replaces an earlier Norman church on the same site, giving it a rich, layered history spanning centuries.
👀 4. What can visitors see inside St Andrew’s Church?
Inside St Andrew’s Church, visitors can admire its elegant Georgian interior, impressive wooden galleries, historic memorials, and beautiful stained-glass windows. The church also holds regular services and events, welcoming both worshippers and tourists.
🏺 5. Why is the Giant’s Grave at St Andrew’s Churchyard interesting?
The Giant’s Grave in the churchyard is a fascinating archaeological feature made up of two ancient crosses and four standing stones. Local legend says it marks the resting place of a giant or a local hero named Owen Caesarius, adding mystery and historic intrigue to any visit.