About
St Helen’s Church is a Grade ll* Listed Building, within the Denton Conservation Area. With a history dating back to the 14th century, it was originally a Chapel of Ease in the Parish of Otley.
Built in 1776, the present church replaced the old mediaeval Denton Chapel and was designed by John Carr as part of his comprehensive scheme for the new Denton Hall for Sir James Ibbetson following the demolition of the Elizabethan Mansion.
Interior
The nave and chancel are full of memorial tablets which reveal a great deal about the church and the Ibbetson family. The beautifully carved oak pulpit and priest’s stall were a gift in 1936 from Maud Wyvill, a descendant of the family.
Of particular note is the East window. The centre light by Henry Gyles of York is dated 1700 and was relocated from the Old Chapel. Commissioned by the 5th Lord Fairfax, it is an important and rare example of English glass painting of the period, said to be the earliest surviving example of a religious picture window since the Civil War.
Dating from the 1930s the two commemorative stained glass windows on the south side of the nave are by James Powell and Sons, Whitefriars Ltd of Wigmore Street. Their distinctive trademark can be seen in the bottom right hand corners.
Churchyard and Car Park
Only four gravestones dating from the 18th century survive from the original chapel graveyard. These have been relocated at the north wall of the porch.
The present churchyard was planted with trees in 1834, with further trees and shrubs added later. There is a flagged path from the Lych gate to the steps and the famous drifts of snowdrops make a stunning show in springtime.
Opened in 2020, a new car park at the rear of the church provides disabled access.
Visit
Denton Church is open to all visitors.
To avoid disappointment, please arrange your visit with the Churchwarden, Ann Chadwick, on 01943 600604
How to find us
Main Street, Denton, LS29 0HQ
Contact
CHURCHWARDEN
Ann Chadwick
Tel: 01943 600604