All Saints' Church, Ripley

The church of All Saints in Ripley in Yorkshire is a small town church with many unique items. The church was moved at the end of the 1300s to its present site, the south end of the town square. It is quietly nestled in among the trees and the tombstones surrounding it.

All Saints' Church, Ripley

In the graveyard is a unique find in English churchyards, the Weeping Cross. Its origin is unknown but its purpose is known. Pilgrims and penitents would use the knee holes to kneel outside to pray for grace and forgiveness. No other weeping cross is extant in England.

Weeping Cross

Inside the church is some of the standards with all local churches: the baptismal font (with the bell ropes nearby!), the organ, a spot for votive candles, the main altar.

Baptismal font and bell pulls

J and L from our summer visit

The organ

We lit some candles and admired the icon

Main altar

Also included in this church are the tombs of the local gentry, starting with Sir Thomas Ingilby (b.1290 - d.1369). His tomb has this note:

Who was knighted by King Edward III for saving his life from a wild boar. His wife is at his side and effigies of his children below. The tomb was brought up from the former Church now known as the Sinking Chapel.

Ingilby became the owner of Ripley Castle (which is just nearby) by his marriage to Edeline Thwenge in 1308/9. They lay side by side under the tombchest.

Edeline and Thomas Ingilby

Detail with children

Another tomb of note is Sit William Ingilby (b. 1546 - d. 1617). The sign by his tomb states...

Entertained James I in 1603 on his way from Scotland for his coronation. Important gentleman as can be seen by all his funeral pennants hanging from the Ingilby Chapel ceiling (opposite). Suspected of involvement with the gunpowder plot but acquitted before trial. 

Tomb of Sir William Ingilby

Many funeral pennants can be seen in the church.

Funeral pennants

Pennant and statue

The family still lives at Ripley Castle. You can read their amazing history here.