St. Anthony’s -The Church On The Fell

Searching for a peaceful historic church to visit near Cartmel or Windermere? St Anthony’s Church on Cartmel Fell is one of Cumbria’s hidden treasures,

Hidden among the quiet lanes of Cartmel Fell stands one of the Lake District’s oldest and most unusual churches.

Built over 500 years ago, St Anthony’s Church is famous for its rare three-decker pulpit, mysterious arrow-sharpening marks, medieval stained glass and peaceful setting overlooking the surrounding fells.

At a Glance

St. Anthony’s Church on the Fell is set amidst the picturesque landscapes of Cartmel Fell, in the heart of the Lake District.

Beautifully and intelligently restored, the church stands within a stunning churchyard filled with daffodils each spring beneath age-old yew trees.

In 1561, Anthony Knipe made a deposition claiming the church was built by his father and others fifty-five years earlier.

The chapel, with a single main chamber, was built on bare rock in 1505 and on what was then open fellside.

Charcoal burning, an ancient trade in the area for centuries, ties deeply to the church’s origins. St. Anthony—the patron saint of charcoal burners—gives his name to this small but significant chapel, the only one in Cumbria dedicated to him.

This charming place of worship holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and idyllic setting, St. Anthony’s Church on Cartmel Fell is a must-visit for those seeking peace, history, and natural beauty in the Lake District.

A Historical Journey

St. Anthony’s Church boasts a fascinating history that stretches back centuries.

The original structure is believed to date from the early 1500s, making it a true architectural testament to the medieval heritage of the region.

Until this little Chapel of Ease was built in 1504, the inhabitants of Cartmel Fell had to make their way to Cartmel Priory for all their sacrements and services.

This was a journey of between six and eight miles, depending on which end of the parish you lived.

Over the years, the church has undergone various renovations and expansions, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic, and Victorian influences.

Architectural Marvels

One of the standout features of St. Anthony’s on Cartmel Fell is its rare three-decker pulpit, built by local carpenter Thomas Seath in 1698 and still used at every service.

When it was constructed, there was a distinct hierarchy: the clerk sat on the lower deck, the reader occupied the middle, and the sermon was—and still is—preached from the top.

This remarkable piece of craftsmanship remains one of the finest surviving examples in Cumbria, illustrating the layered traditions of worship in centuries past.

The church’s Norman tower also draws attention, standing proudly as a reminder of its ancient origins.

On entering the porch, you may notice deep grooves cut into the stone porch.

Many people believe these marks were made by arrow sharpening.

For hundreds of years, local men were required by law to practise archery, often after Sunday church services. It is thought that archers rubbed their arrows against the stone sides of the church doorway before heading off to practise shooting at targets.

Inside, visitors can admire exquisite stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a beautiful altar that enhance the church’s historic charm.

The east window depicting St. Anthony and the pig includes precious fragments of 15th-century glass from Cartmel Priory.

One notable relic is a 2’6″ carved crucifix replica once displayed above the Rood screen.

The original figure of Christ—one of only three known from that period—is now safely preserved in Kendal Museum.

Unfortunately, in the past, the original had not been greatly respected and, within living memory, was used as a poker!

Spiritual Haven at St. Anthony’s

Inside, the church radiates peace and serenity.

Whether you seek reflection, prayer, or a quiet appreciation of sacred art, St. Anthony’s offers a calm sanctuary.

The soft light falling on old pews and wooden beams creates an enduring sense of reverence.

Natural Splendour

Surrounded by rolling hills and woodland, St. Anthony’s Church on Cartmel Fell harmonises beautifully with its natural surroundings.

The location invites leisurely walks, photography, and contemplation among the tranquil landscape of South Lakeland.

Local Heritage and Community

Today, St. Anthony’s continues to serve its close-knit parish community, hosting regular services, weddings, and seasonal festivals.

It remains a symbol of unity and continuity for the residents of Cartmel Fell and beyond.

A Very Personal Connection

St. Anthony’s Church is more than just a historic building to me and my family. It has been part of some of the most important moments of our lives.

I was married at St. Anthony’s on 2nd November 1996, with the service conducted by the Rev. Bill Greetham. Nearly thirty years later, I can still remember what a special place it was to begin our married life together.

Our connection with St. Anthony’s continued when our children were born.

Our daughter, Holly Louise Chadwick, was born on 21st January 2000 and was christened at St. Anthony’s on 23rd April 2000, again with the Rev. Bill Greetham conducting the service.

Then came our son, Matthew Louis Chadwick, who was born on 23rd February 2003 — my birthday! He was christened at St. Anthony’s on Sunday, 1st June 2003, with Rev. Bill Greetham once again taking the service.

So, for our family, St. Anthony’s isn’t simply an old church on Cartmel Fell. It is where we celebrated our marriage and where we brought both our children to be christened. Four important dates in our family history are connected to this little church.

Our Wedding Reception at Hodge Hill

Our wedding day didn’t end at St. Anthony’s.

After the ceremony on 2nd November 1996, we headed just down the road to the Hodge Hill Hotel, where we held our wedding reception.

Looking back, it seems rather fitting that our wedding celebrations took place so close to St. Anthony’s. The church provided the setting for the ceremony, while Hodge Hill became part of the memories of the celebrations afterwards.

Nearly thirty years on, both places still hold a very special place in our family history.

It is easy to forget that old churches like St. Anthony’s are not simply historic buildings. For centuries, they have been places where local families have celebrated marriages, welcomed new babies, said goodbye to loved ones and gathered together as a community.

Our family is just one small part of that much longer story.

Visiting St. Anthony’s Church

Located approximately four miles north of the village of Cartmel, the church is easily reached by car via scenic rural roads connecting the A5074 (Windermere) to the A590 (Grange-over-Sands).

On arrival, visitors can explore the church’s interior, admire its architecture, and note the distinctive slope of the floor towards the altar—caused by the natural fall of the ground.

The churchyard is peaceful and steeped in history, featuring a mounting block and markings where archers once sharpened their arrows.

Conclusion

St. Anthony’s Church on Cartmel Fell is a rare gem among Lake District churches—a place where history, architecture, and spirituality converge.

From its ancient foundations and unique three-decker pulpit to its serene woodland setting, it offers visitors a memorable glimpse into Cumbria’s ecclesiastical and cultural past.

Whether you’re a lover of heritage, an admirer of sacred art, or simply in search of tranquillity, St. Anthony’s promises an inspiring and unforgettable visit.

Where to Stay near Cartmel Fell

St Anthony’s Church is around a 15-minute drive from Kents Bank Holiday Cottage, making it an easy addition to a day exploring Cartmel, Cartmel Fell, Windermere and the southern Lake District.

After discovering one of Cumbria‘s oldest chapels, return to comfortable accommodation with views across Morecambe Bay, a secure garden for dogs and free private parking.

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly Grange-over-Sands holiday cottage with easy access to St. Anthony’s Church and the Cartmel Fell area, call 07785944194 or enquire here.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) Where is St Anthony’s Church, Cartmel Fell located?

St Anthony’s Church is in the peaceful hamlet of Cartmel Fell, LA11 6NU near Lake Windermere in Cumbria, England. It sits in the beautiful Lake District countryside, making it a popular stop for walkers and visitors exploring the area.

2) How old is St Anthony’s Church, Cartmel Fell?

The church was built in the early 16th century, around 1504. It is one of the most historic churches in the Lake District, with many original features still intact.

3) What makes St Anthony’s Church special?

St Anthony’s Church is famous for its simple beauty, peaceful setting, and historic box pews. Inside, you’ll also find medieval woodwork and stained glass, which add to its unique charm.

4) Can visitors go inside St Anthony’s Church?

Yes, the church is usually open to visitors during the day. People come to enjoy the quiet atmosphere, see the historic interior, and take in the lovely views from the churchyard.

5) Is St Anthony’s Church, Cartmel Fell, easy to reach?

The church is tucked away in a rural location, best reached by car. There is limited parking nearby, and the site is also popular with walkers exploring the Cartmel Fell area.

6) Is St Anthony’s Church free to visit?

Yes, St Anthony’s Church is free to visit.

How to Book Kents Bank Holiday Cottage

Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage takes just minutes. Simply visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or call us on 07785944194.

Our friendly team answers your questions and helps you find the perfect dates for your Lake District holiday. We make the booking process easy, so you can focus on planning your relaxing getaway.

Updated: August 10th 2026