| Location: |
The church is in the centre of Aspatria, on the north side of the A596 as it forms the main street of the town. The tall tower is a prominent landmark. There is a lay-by with disc parking in front of the church gate, with further parking and public toilets nearby in Queen Street Car Park. |
| Description: |
The present St Kentigern's Church was built in sandstone in 1846-8, in a tall Early English style, replacing a smaller Norman building, fragments of which were incorporated into the new building. The 13th century font and the monument to the Musgrave Family of Hayton Castle were also retained, along with some much earlier remains including an Anglo-Danish cross shaft and a 'hog-back' tomb. Outside the east end of the church stands a repliaca of the Gosforth Viking Cross (see Calder Deanery). There is also some noteworthy stained glass, and a fine peal of bells, which are rung most Sunday mornings. The bells were rehung, and a new ringing platform installed, to celebrate the Millennium.
The church stands in a large and ancient churchyard, and ot the north of the church is St Kentigern's Well. Tradition has it that the sixth-century saint, also known as Mungo, baptised converts here. Aspatria is one of ten churches in North Cumbria dedicated to him and sharing in the tradition that he spent part of his life here.
The church is usually open for visitors during the day.
There is an active and full congregation, with links to many aspects of the town's life including Richmond Hill School (primary) and Beacon Hill School (secondary). |
| 1st Sunday: |
8.00 am Holy Communion; 9.30 am Sung Eucharist; Baptisms take place at the 9.30 am service |
| 2nd Sunday: |
8.00 am Holy Communion; 9.30 am All Age Worship |
| 3rd Sunday: |
8.00 am Holy Communion; 9.30 am Sung Eucharist |
| 4th Sunday: |
8.00 am Holy Communion; 9.30 am Sung Eucharist |
| 5th Sunday: |
8.00 am Holy Communion; 9.30 am Sung Eucharist |
| Midweek: |
8.30 am daily Morning Prayer; Wednesday - 9.30 am Holy Communion |
