Bridekirk
Cumbria - The Lake District
(See also Holme
Cultram Abbey)
 Bridekirk, on the outskirts of Cockermouth, is named after its
cruciform shaped church, re-constructed in the late 1860s. Surviving are the remains of a ruined
chancel with 16th century east and south windows.
 Incorporated in the new construction are two Norman doorways. The church is
famous for its 12th century casket-shaped font carved with inscriptions, birds, beasts
and the baptism of Christ. It is signed by a 'Richard', believed to be the work of a famous
carver from Durham. Old tombstones stand guard around the church walls. There are patterned tiles
inside the church.
 The church and vicarage belonged to the monastery
of Guisborough before the dissolution. Two men born in the church vicarage became successful
politicians: Sir Joseph Williamson, who was secretary of state in 1674 and Thomas Tickell (born
1686), a poet who was secretary to the lords justices of Ireland.
 Location Map of Bridekirk
Bridekirk is two miles north of Cockermouth off the A595.
Photos courtesy Steve Bulman
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