St. Matthew's Church, Pentrich
St. Matthew's Church, Pentrich
Highlight • Historical Site
Hiking
5.0
(18)
St. Matthew's Church, Pentrich, is a profoundly significant Grade I listed parish church nestled in the charming village of Pentrich, Derbyshire, England. Standing at an elevation of approximately 190 metres, this historical site boasts origins tracing back to the 12th century, making it a prominent landmark in the region between Belper and Alfreton. Its architecture primarily reflects the Perpendicular period, yet it retains fascinating Norman elements from its earliest construction.
Visitors are consistently drawn to St. Matthew's Church for its…
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Best routes near St. Matthew's Church, Pentrich
4.2
(13)
29
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
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16.5km
04:22
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Informations
Elevation 190 m
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Inside St. Matthew's Church, you can discover several unique historical artifacts. These include the ancient Norman font, famously used for salting beef before its restoration, and exquisite stained glass windows by renowned artists like Morris & Co. and Christopher Whall. You'll also find memorials to historical figures such as Edward Horn (d. 1764) and Madam Mower (d. 1776), and late Norman pillars and arcades dating back to the 12th century.
Yes, St. Matthew's Church serves as an excellent starting point for several walks. Notably, the church is a key landmark on the Pentrich Revolution Walk, a circular route that explores the history of the 1817 uprising. There are also various other trails that allow hikers to explore the surrounding Derbyshire countryside, ranging from leisurely village strolls to more challenging routes.
Parking in Pentrich village is generally available on local streets. However, as it's a small village, spaces can become limited, especially during peak times like weekends or public holidays. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a convenient spot, particularly if you plan to embark on a longer walk.
While the church itself is an ancient building, efforts are often made to ensure accessibility where possible. However, due to its historical nature with steps and uneven surfaces, full wheelchair accessibility might be limited in certain areas. It's recommended to contact the church directly for the most up-to-date information regarding specific accessibility features for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Dogs are generally not permitted inside the church building, with the exception of assistance dogs. However, the surrounding Derbyshire countryside offers numerous dog-friendly walking trails. Many local routes welcome well-behaved dogs on leads, allowing you and your canine companion to enjoy the scenic landscape around Pentrich village.
While the church is beautiful year-round, spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for walking and photography. In spring, the surrounding countryside is vibrant with new growth, and in autumn, the changing foliage provides stunning colours. Winter visits can be atmospheric, but trails may be muddy or icy, and daylight hours are shorter. Summer offers longer days but can also be busier.
Pentrich is a small village, so options directly within it are limited. However, there are traditional pubs and cafes in nearby villages and towns such as Ripley, Alfreton, and Belper, which are just a short drive away. For accommodation, you'll find a range of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in these larger neighbouring areas, offering convenient bases for exploring the region.
The terrain around Pentrich generally features rolling hills, agricultural land, and some wooded areas. While St. Matthew's Church itself stands at approximately 190 metres, nearby walks can involve moderate ascents and descents, offering varied difficulty levels. Trails often include a mix of footpaths, bridleways, and quiet country lanes, providing a good workout for hikers.
To fully appreciate the historical and architectural details of St. Matthew's Church, including its ancient font, stained glass, and Norman elements, you should plan to spend at least 45 minutes to an hour. If you wish to combine your visit with a walk on one of the nearby trails, allocate additional time based on the length and difficulty of your chosen route.
Beyond St. Matthew's Church, the area around Pentrich is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore other sites related to the Pentrich Revolution or enjoy scenic viewpoints across the Derbyshire countryside. The nearby towns of Belper and Ripley also offer historical attractions and charming town centres. For natural features, the Peak District National Park is a short drive away, offering extensive hiking opportunities and stunning vistas.
Public transport to Pentrich village is available via local bus routes. These services connect Pentrich to larger towns like Ripley, Alfreton, and Belper, which in turn have connections to regional train stations. It's advisable to check current bus timetables in advance, as services to smaller villages can be less frequent, especially on weekends.