A look at the history of St Martin's Church, Allerton Mauleverer, with Dr Emma Wells

The site of St Martin’s Church, Allerton Mauleverer has hosted a religious structure since the Norman era when a member of the Mauleverer family founded a priory nearby. Archaeological investigations in 1976 revealed medieval foundations and an apsidal chancel likely dating to the 12th century. Over subsequent centuries, the building saw additions — notably 14th- and 15th-century work — reflecting evolving liturgical and architectural fashions.

In c.1745-46 the medieval church was almost entirely remodelled for Richard Arundell, heir to the Mauleverers and Member of Parliament for Knaresborough. The reconstruction adopted a neo-Norman style.

St Martin’s is constructed of ashlar and coursed limestone and comprises a six-bay nave with north and south aisles, transepts, a two-bay chancel, and a central three-stage tower between nave and chancel. The central tower’s upper stage holds bell openings on each face, with a shallow pyramidal roof topped by a weathervane.

Inside, the church retains a range of fixtures from the 18th-century rebuild: a vase-shaped baptismal font, a two-deck pulpit with sounding board, and panelled box pews, typical of Georgian Anglican churches. The roof structure is a striking hammerbeam design, and a painting of Moses and Aaron adorns the chancel arch, lending a sense of continuity with older Christian iconography.

In the north transept are remarkable medieval memorials: two wooden effigies of cross-legged knights — likely 13th or early 14th century — and two alabaster effigies of 1475 commemorating Sir John Mauleverer and his wife. Also present is a brass of c.1400 for Sir John and Eleanor Mauleverer. The south transept houses the tomb of Mary Thornton, who died in 1800.

The church was declared redundant on 1 December 1971 and placed in the care of The Churches Conservation Trust in 1973. It is now preserved, not as an active parish church but as a heritage monument; its Grade II* listing underscores its architectural and historical significance.

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Books by Dr Emma Wells