St Marys Church, Kirkby Lonsdale

The Parish Church of Kirkby Lonsdale, or by it's official name St Mary the Virgin is a Grade I listed Anglican place of worship overlooking the River Lune in the town of Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria.

Standing on it's current site since the 12th Century, with some of the architecture being of Norman build the church has many influences in it's build due to various rebuilds during it's history. In the 14th century the church was extended by rebuilding the north and south walls further out. further developments in the early 16th century included the addition of a new clerestory, pinnacles and battlements, these were removed during further refurbishments in 1807 as a new roof was added. Again the church was remodelled in 1866 by E.G Paley who once raised the roof, re-floored the chancel, added a south porch amongst many other developments.

In the grounds are a number of Grade II listed monuments and a 2 storey octagonal stone gazebo thought to date from the late 18th century. It was moved to it's current location to the north of St Mary's from the garden of the vicarage.

The pictures below were taken on the 4th April 2015 with a Polaroid is2132 camera. They can also be seen on Clickasnap un-watermarked and higher resolution. Click any image for a link to the Clickasnap version to open in another window.

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Whispers of the Devil: Unravelling the History and Legends of Devil's Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale.

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, where the River Lune carves its path through the verdant landscape, stands a relic of centuries past: Devil's Bridge. This ancient stone structure, a Grade I listed monument, whispers tales of monks, daredevils, and, of course, the Devil himself. Once a vital artery of transportation, it now stands as a picturesque testament to a bygone era, drawing visitors with its haunting beauty and captivating legends.

A Bridge Forged in Time:

Devil's Bridge, believed to have been constructed around 1370, predates many of the surrounding settlements. Historical records suggest that the monks of St Mary's Abbey, York, were responsible for its creation. This strategic crossing provided a vital link across the River Lune, facilitating trade and travel in a region where travel was often challenging. Its rugged stone arches, weathered by the relentless passage of time, speak of the craftsmanship and endurance of medieval builders.

However, its role as the primary crossing was eventually superseded by the construction of the nearby Stanley Bridge in 1932, a more modern and robust structure better suited to the increasing volume of traffic. The transition relegated Devil's Bridge to pedestrian and recreational use, preserving its historical integrity but altering its purpose.

Daredevil's Delight, Legend's Lore:

For generations, Devil's Bridge became synonymous with a thrill-seeking activity known as tombstoning. The deep pools beneath the central arch, carved out by the river's relentless flow, provided a seemingly safe landing for those daring enough to leap from the bridge's heights. This adrenaline-fueled pastime, however, came to an end a few years ago when it was outlawed due to safety concerns.

Yet, despite the ban on tombstoning, the bridge retains its allure, particularly during the summer months. It remains a popular destination for motorcyclists navigating the winding roads of the Yorkshire Dales, offering a scenic pit stop and a chance to soak in the area's natural beauty.

The Devil's Bargain:

But it is the bridge's legend that truly captures the imagination. The story goes that the Devil himself constructed the bridge, offering his services in exchange for the first soul to cross it upon completion. Local lore recounts how a clever woman outwitted the Devil by throwing a piece of bread across the bridge, prompting her dog to chase after it. Thus, the dog became the first "soul" to cross, leaving the Devil frustrated and cheated of his prize.

This tale, echoing similar legends found across Europe, adds a layer of mystique to the bridge, transforming it from a simple stone structure into a gateway to the supernatural. The legend serves as a reminder of the enduring power of folklore and the way in which stories can shape our understanding of places.

A Legacy Preserved:

Today, Devil's Bridge stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legends of the Yorkshire Dales. Its Grade I listed status ensures its preservation for future generations, allowing visitors to experience a tangible link to the past. As we gaze upon its weathered stones and listen to the gentle murmur of the River Lune, we are reminded of the monks, the daredevils, and the Devil himself – all of whom have left their mark on this remarkable bridge. A place where history, legend, and natural beauty intertwine, Devil's Bridge continues to captivate and inspire, offering a glimpse into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

The pictures were taken on the 4th April 2015 using a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.