AS part of the nationwide Heritage Open Days in September, all three religious buildings in the village of Bramhope will be open on the afternoon of Sunday, September 18th.

This will be a unique opportunity to visit three very different buildings, each one of which has unique architectural features, and understand the development of religious practice in one community over almost four centuries. All three buildings will have guides on hand to explain the major features and answer questions

Bramhope Puritan Chapel was built in 1649 by Robert Dyneley. It is one of only two religious buildings erected in England in the period of the English Civil War and the rule of Cromwell, 1640-60. It is almost unique as a rare example of a chapel constructed specifically for Puritan Worship. This highly atmospheric building features box pews and an elevated pulpit. It is Grade I listed and owned by Bramhope Parish Council. The Chapel is on Leeds Road adjacent to the Britannia Hotel. It will be open from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

Across Leeds Road from the Chapel is the Church of St. Giles. It is built of local stone from the Chevin and was dedicated in 1881, replacing the Chapel as the Anglican place of worship. The church contains examples of furniture by Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thomson and some fine stained glass. There are strong connections with the Rhodes/Darwin family. Explore 140 years of Bramhope history through an exhibition, and conversation over refreshments. The church will be open from 1.30pm to 4.30pm and refreshments will be available.

The Methodist Church is on Eastgate, built in 1896, this Grade 2 listed building is known as “The Cathedral of the Dales”. This year’s theme for the Heritage Open Days is ‘Inventions & Innovations’ and the recently refurbished Abbot & Smith organ exemplifies this theme. The church has some beautiful stained glass. Other highlights for your visit are a family activity quiz and a small exhibition of artefacts and information from 125 years of Methodism in Bramhope. The church will be open from 1.30pm to 4.30pm and refreshments will be available.

No booking is needed. Just turn up. But do allow yourself time to see all three of these heritage gems.

Further details can be found on the Heritage Open Days website at https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/