St Anthony's was built in 1504 as a Chapel of Ease for the people of Cartmel Fell so that they no longer had to walk to Cartmel Priory for Communion (7 miles away!).

The interior includes two enclosed pews known as the Cowmire and Burblethwaite pews and were used by two prominent local families. The one on the north of the aisle (the Cowmire Pew) was said to have been made from the rood screen at the Reformation, although this has been disputed. The crucifix from the original screen is now on display in the Treasury at Carlisle Cathedral (we have a modern copy hanging to the south of the altar). The Cowmire pew was also probably used as the schoolroom and has some interesting graffiti on the oak benches. The early curates not only took services but taught the local children.

The pulpit was remodelled in 1698 and is of an unusual 'triple decker' form.

By the beginning of the 20th Century St Anthony's was in a very poor condition. A major renovation was undertaken between 1910/11 under the guidance of local architect, John Curwen. He was also a member of the Cumberland and Westmorland Antiquarian and Archeological Society so the work was carefully overseen. The work included the removal of the pews which were replaced by the current oak ones made by Arthur Simpson of Kendal. He also made the screen behind the altar.

The window behind the altar is thought to date from the 15th Century and may possibly have come from Cartmel Priory on its Dissolution. The pieces were in quite a muddle and in 1911 Knowles of York undertook a re-organisation of the fragments. Although the windows are still far from complete, there is at least some coherence to it. The window on the left shows St Anthony with his pig, staff and bell.

In 2017 we were thrilled to have the beautiful new window in the Baptistry installed. It was designed and given to us by a local family. The window was made in York at the Barley Studios, and the font cover was designed at the same time to enhance the window.

Further recent gifts were the interesting crucifixes and sculpture of hands made using recycled copper wire. Gifted to us by the artist, Mark Hunt in 2023.

We hope you will have a chance to come and look at our beautiful church. There are so many historic features - try and find the grooves on the Elizabethan porch door jambs. These are thought to be where arrows were sharpened before regulation archery practice!