Historical Overview
The church of St. Giles in Great Orton stands as the oldest building in the parish, with its origins tracing back to the year 1098. It was constructed during the reign of William Rufus, the son of William the Conqueror. Reputedly, St. Giles is considered the first church built in Cumberland (now Cumbria) following the Norman Conquest. For over nine centuries, it has served as the spiritual centre for the people of Great Orton, offering faithful ministry, worship, and celebration.
Architectural Features and Development
A remarkable amount of the original Norman architecture has been preserved, with significant restoration undertaken during the Victorian era and again in the 1980s. The church holds the distinction of being a Grade II* Listed Building. Constructed from irregular coursed, dressed, grey and red sandstone blocks sourced from Hadrian’s Wall, St. Giles exhibits a simple design comprising a chancel and nave.
Among the original features are two wooden beams above the chancel and two Norman windows at the sanctuary’s east end. The nave windows, by contrast, were likely enlarged during 19th-century modifications. To facilitate liturgical improvements, the original chancel arch and dividing wall are thought to have been removed during restoration. The church’s three-foot-thick walls are of ‘navis’ design, symbolising a ship or ‘The Ark’.
Externally, the marks left by the original masons remain visible. The pitched roof is covered with stone flags over an exposed structure, and the western wall supports a single bell, dated 1752.
Restorations and Additions
During Victorian times, the church underwent extension and refurbishment. A further extension was added to the west end in the mid-19th century following the demolition of an adjoining school room. At this time, stained glass windows of particular interest were installed. The west window, created in 1886 by Campbell, Smith & Co., is an example of the Arts & Crafts style. In 1955, a new window depicting and dedicated to St. Giles was added by Millican, Baguley and Atkinson of Newcastle upon Tyne.
The font cover, designed by a previous incumbent and carved by a parishioner, features a Greek palindrome meaning ‘wash not only my feet, but my sins’. The same craftsman also carved the lectern and choir stall ends. Around the turn of the 20th century, a porch was added to the north side entrance, while another doorway on the south side of the chancel is believed to be the original entryway.
The recently restored Bellcote at the west end holds a 17-inch diameter bell from 1752, displaying the names of the churchwardens of the time.
Churchyard and Access
Access to the churchyard is provided via double gates beneath a metal arch on the north west side. A gravel driveway offers level entry, ensuring there are no steps between the road and the church’s interior. An adjacent car park is also available.
Historical Challenges and Dedication
Great Orton’s proximity to the English/Scottish border has meant the area has a history marked by frequent raids and destruction, resulting in a scarcity of early written records. Nevertheless, church registers are almost complete from 1538 to the present. The church itself suffered fire damage before the 17th century. Originally dedicated to St. Giles, there was a period when it was known as St. Kentigern (or Mungo). In the late 19th century, a document was discovered that led to the church being rededicated to St. Giles.
Visiting St. Giles
St. Giles church is typically open to visitors throughout the year. All are welcome, regardless of faith, to visit for prayer or to explore the local history and heritage. The level gravel walkway ensures easy access without steps from the road to the church interior.