St Oswald, Arncliffe

St Oswald, Arncliffe sits in a bend of the river Skirfare amongst sycamores and yews beneath the limestone crags of Littondale in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is a sanctuary of peace and prayer nestling in the glory of God's creation. The church community is happy and caring, looking to find the depths of hope to be found in following the way of Jesus Christ.. 

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Worship and Prayer

See the Home Page and What's On section of our website for specific Services in the coming week. You can also use the Sunday Services button on the Home Page to find our general pattern of Sunday Services.

Making a Donation

Arncliffe Church is loved by many people throughout the world and serves as a place of spiritual nourishment. Making a donation to the running of the church community allows us to remain viable, open and hospitable to all those who live, work and visit here. 
Click here to Donate.

History

The chancel of the present church rests on Norman foundations, but the first church could have been Saxon. The tower is 15th century and holds three bells, the oldest of which dates from about 1350 and still strikes on the hour. The church has had two restorations in 1796 and 1841.

Charles Kingsley & John Robinson

Charles Kingsley (1819-1875) was inspired to write The Water Babies whilst on a visit to Arncliffe. Visiting the Hammond family at Bridge End House, the bridge over the River Skirfare served as inspiration. 
John Robinson (1919-1983), Bishop of Woolwich and author of the contentious Honest to God is buried in the churchyard - his family home was in Arncliffe.

Littondale