Bridekirk - St. Bridget's Church

St. Bridget's Church

The original wooden church was rebuilt with stone in 1130 after a stone Church previously being there since ancient times. Before the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, St Bridget's Church was owned by the monastery of Guisborough. As a result of the church’s deterioration over the years, a new church was built by the architects Corey and Ferguson in 1868 alongside the remains of the old church. However, the original chapel still remains in place today with the south and east windows which were built in the 16th century. The new church is in neo-Norman style.

Inside the church, the 12th century font is possibly a remaining feature of the original chapel because of its age. For a Norman sculpture in the United Kingdom, it is in very good quality condition. The font was carved by Richard of Durham with the description, “Richard he me wrought, and to this beauty me brought.” The font is a runic decoration and portrays the story of Adam and Eve and also shows Christ’s baptism.

Outside of the church near the old chapel, there are a number of ancient tombstones and coffin lids.