Christ Church, Barkisland: A Winter's Tale

There's a special kind of quiet that settles over a churchyard in the winter, especially after a fresh snowfall. The air is crisp, the world is hushed, and the familiar landscape is transformed into something serene and timeless. I recently had the chance to visit Christ Church in Barkisland, a small village near Halifax, West Yorkshire, and found it to be the perfect subject for a winter photography session.

Built in 1852 on land donated by William Baxter of Barkisland Lower Hall, this Anglican church holds a tranquil history. A memorial inside the church honors Baxter, and the building itself is a testament to the work of the architects Mallinson and Healey, who were responsible for constructing about a dozen other churches in the area. Christ Church was granted Grade II listed status in 1984, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

Wandering the grounds on a cold December day, I was struck by the contrast between the sharp angles of the Gothic Revival architecture and the soft blanket of snow covering the gravestones. The light caught the stone just right, highlighting its texture and creating a sense of warmth against the cold, winter sky. The snow-dusted tombstones stood like silent sentinels, each one telling a small part of the community's story.

The photos, taken on December 29, 2014, with a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, capture this unique atmosphere. In both colour and black and white, the images show the church's charming details—the arched windows, the slate roof, and the simple yet elegant spire. This beautiful little church in Barkisland is a hidden gem, and seeing it cloaked in snow felt like capturing a piece of its history frozen in time.

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A Stroll Through Ripponden: Cobbles, History, and St. Bartholomew's Church

Nestled in the heart of the Ryburn Valley, the charming village of Ripponden in West Yorkshire holds a wealth of history, architectural beauty, and intriguing local lore. Join us as we explore its cobbled lanes and delve into the story of its iconic parish church, St. Bartholomew's, through the lens of photographs taken on a spring day in 2017.

The Charm of Ripponden Cobbles: Priest Lane

Our journey begins on a short, historic road known as Priest Lane, often affectionately referred to as the "Ripponden cobbles." This picturesque thoroughfare descends from the bustling A58 Halifax Road, guiding you past the welcoming embrace of the Old Bridge Inn, before gracefully crossing the River Ryburn and culminating near the venerable St. Bartholomew's Church.

The accompanying image, captured just beyond the Old Bridge Inn and looking upwards towards the A58, perfectly encapsulates the timeless appeal of this cobbled ascent. The weathered stone walls, some adorned with railings, speak of centuries of foot traffic, while the sturdy stone buildings flanking the lane stand as silent sentinels to the village's enduring character. It's a pathway that evokes a sense of stepping back in time, where every stone tells a story.

St. Bartholomew's Church: A Sanctuary Reborn Through Centuries

A focal point of Ripponden's history and community is St. Bartholomew's Church. While it technically occupies a site within what was historically the township of Barkisland, it is now firmly considered an integral part of Ripponden, with Barkisland itself perched on the nearby hills overlooking the village.

The history of worship on this sacred ground is a testament to resilience. The very first place of worship here was a modest chapel, consecrated in 1465. This was followed by a much larger church built in 1610. However, fate intervened in 1722 when the River Ryburn, usually a gentle presence, unleashed a devastating flood. The waters rose by an astonishing 20 feet, inflicting severe damage on the 1610 church, sweeping away several graves, and tragically claiming the lives of 15 local residents.

Undeterred, a third church rose from the foundations in 1731. This structure served the community until 1867, when its roof fell into such disrepair that the building had to be closed and subsequently demolished. The current, magnificent St. Bartholomew's Church, designed and built by George Shaw of Saddleworth, finally opened its doors in June 1870.

The church has witnessed its share of drama even in its modern form. In 1876, repairs were needed for the belfry after sparks from a fire at the nearby Ripponden Mill reached the tower. Since then, the changes have been minor, with windows replaced and a new organ installed, preserving its historical integrity while ensuring its continued functionality.

One delightful piece of local folklore surrounds the church clock. Legend has it that the people of Barkisland once refused to contribute to the cleaning of the church clock. As a result, the clock face looking towards Barkisland remains perpetually uncleaned – a charming reminder of community dynamics and perhaps a touch of playful rivalry!

The photographs of St. Bartholomew's, taken from various vantage points, beautifully showcase its imposing spire, the intricate stonework, and its serene setting amidst the lush greenery and the gentle flow of the River Ryburn. One image, framed by the branches of nearby trees, perfectly captures the church's enduring presence within the natural landscape. Another, in a sepia tone, lends a timeless, almost nostalgic feel to the grand edifice, hinting at the many generations it has served.

These images, captured on April 29, 2017, with a Nikon D3300, offer a glimpse into the heart of Ripponden – a place where history resonates through its cobbled streets and where a beautiful church stands as a testament to centuries of faith and community spirit. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of charming villages, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Ripponden offers a captivating journey through time.

The church pictured from across the River Ryburn near to
the Old Bridge Inn. The river rose over 20 feet in 1722.

The church pictured from the B6113 Elland Road (Ripponden Bank).The dirty
Barkisland facing clock face can be seen on the right of the spire.

The church pictured from the abandoned Rishworth Branch Line

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Scenic Drive Through Ryburn Valley: Scammonden to Sowerby Bridge Pt 1 and Pt 2.

Ever wonder what the winding roads of the Ryburn Valley look like from the driver's seat? I recently took a beautiful walk around the lake beside the M62 and decided to capture the return journey, transforming it into a five-part video series. It was a perfect opportunity to showcase the stunning landscapes and charming villages we passed through.

This video series takes you on a journey from Scammonden all the way to Sowerby Bridge, tracing the Ryburn Valley and passing through picturesque spots like Barkisland, Rishworth, Ripponden, Triangle, and Kebroyd. Each clip is set to music, making for a relaxing and visually engaging experience.

We're kicking things off with Part 1, a 4-minute and 7-second clip. This segment covers the initial 1.1-mile stretch from Scammonden to Withens End Lane in Barkisland. Get ready to see the early views of this scenic drive!

Part 2 takes in the 1.2 mile stretch of road from Withens End Lane to the edge of Rishworth, climbing down the valley and underneath the dam head of Booth Wood Reservoir. This clip last again for 4mins 7secs.

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