Set deep within the undulating peaks of Upper Wharfedale, St Michael and All Angels Church is tucked away in the village of Hubberholme, perched in a steep valley. This is a small but profoundly charming parish church steeped in history and architectural significance. The church stands on the banks of the River Wharfe.
Its origins date back to the 12th century, though much of its current structure reflects works undertaken in the late Tudor era (and later), with the south porch featuring a carved date stone in the gable with ‘1696’. Upon the site once stood a forest chapel or chapel of ease built to serve the nearby parish of Arncliffe though it became a fully-fledged parish church in 1578.
The architecture is a delightful blend of Norman, Gothic, and vernacular styles. The craftsmanship extends to the pews and choir stalls, many of which were carved in the 16th century, though interspersed with more modern, 20th-century pews, choir stall and chair additions by Robert ‘the mouseman’ Thompson of Kilburn, who left his trademark carving throughout. However, its most notable feature is one of only two surviving examples of a rood loft and screen in North Yorkshire. Hubberholme’s dates to 1558, the year of Elizabeth I’s accession to the throne. Rood screens and lofts were a typical feature of medieval churches functioning as dividers between the nave and the chancel but most importantly to display the ‘great rood’, a sculpture of the Crucifixion accompanied by St Mary and St John the Evangelist. This one is also unique in that it appears to be located back to front, with the most decorative portion facing east, including a carving of the crest of the local noble Percy family.
St Michael and All Angels is perhaps best known today for its association with the Yorkshire poet and author J.B. Priestley. Priestley, who found inspiration in the Dales, described Hubberholme as one of his favourite places. His ashes are interred in the churchyard, unmarked.
Address: St Michael and All Angels Church, 7 Stubbing Ln, Hubberholme, Skipton BD23 5JE, United Kingdom
Books by Dr Emma Wells
