Otley Parish Church

Otley Parish Church has parts dating from the 11th century and is the oldest building in the town. In particular, there is a display of our Anglian cross pieces which show that Christian Worship has taken place here for at least 1,300 years. The Evangelists Cross, dating from the 8th century, has been described as 'one of the finest monuments surviving from pre-Viking Northumbria’. The Dragon Cross, dating from the early 9th century, it has been said that ‘it is impossible to parallel the rampant creatures on the two faces elsewhere in Anglo-Saxon sculpture. There are fantastic beasts in plenty but rarely rendered so solidly, in such relief and on so large a scale.’
At 1100 and repeated at 1400, there will be 'The Story of Otley Parish Church in 25 Objects - a guided tour and talk.'
The impressive, Grade II listed, Navvies’ Memorial in the churchyard will be open for visits. This is a memorial to those who died during the construction of the Bramhope Tunnel and a display inside the church tells more of the story - produced by the Otley Conservation Task Force. Accompanied children are welcome, with self-guided heritage trails available for both them and adults. The tower will be open to visit as far as the bell ringing chamber (but not the top) - see the church website for visit times. There will be a display of historical documents and rolling slide presentations, giving detail about the church's stained glass windows and a virtual tower tour.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 07 September:

1000-1630

Location & directions

Kirkgate, Otley, West Yorkshire, LS21 3HW

Directions:

Otley Parish Church is located in the centre of Otley about 200 metres from the bus station. Bus services run to Otley from Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate, Skipton and Wetherby. From the bus station, there are also regular buses to Menston rail station which has direct services to Leeds, Bradford and Ilkley. Free parking (up to 4 hours) is available nearby at Sainsbury's on Bondgate - LS21 3AB

Contact on day:

Ken Dale

Telephone number:

+447805355457

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The sloping path from Kirkgate leads to the north door of the church which provides level access into the building. The main body of the church is fully accessible.

Additional information

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 0 minute(s)

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