The Parish of Eskdale

St. Cathrines church Eskdale
It is said that in the sixth century a Hermit lived on Arment Hill - quarter of a mile east of the parish church of Saint Catherine. People used to travel miles to seek his prayers and healing. His Well is still recognisable and some of the farmers still draw water from it when they bring their children to Baptism in the Church Stepping stones at St. Cathrines

The River Esk is easily crossed at Saint Catherine's and the old stepping stones are still used by those coming to Church and those walking from The King George up to Doctor Bridge - one of the best riverside walks in the area.

The position of this Church is determined by both the presence of the Holy Well and the Stepping Stones - it is very ancient. Fortunately the Victorians did not spoil its simplicity when they rebuilt it - a barn, beside a river, under the mountains where the Christian God has been worshipped by generations of valley people and their visitors.

Stepping stones at St. Cathrines

Worship is offered every week in Eskdale.

  • Sunday Services
  • Rev. Canon Gill Hart
  • 2 Smithy Banks
  • Holmrook
  • Cumbria
  • CA19 1TP
  • Tel: 019467 24724
  • Email: hart.gill@btopenworld.com
    • The service times are likely to change over the coming months so please contact the vicar or check the church website, which is here On the second and forth Sundays of the month at 11am at Saint Catherine's under the mountain ( a farm lonning or track runs off the Eskdale to Hardnott road to the right, at Boot - its OK for cars) on the first and third Sundays of the month worship is at 9.30 at Saint Bega's, Eskdale (opposite the post office). This little church was built by Lord Rea at the beginning of the last century to help those who lived in the village.

    At either church the Vicar and People will welcome you and you will be encouraged to join in the worship - invariably a Holy Communion Service with Hymns. Hopefully you will receive some comfort or inspiration; some healing or challenge that will enrich your life and make your visit all the more memorable for you. It certainly encourages our little congregation when we are able to welcome others - we look forward to meeting you.