Steeple Ashton Church - Drone - Mavic Pro

St Mary the Virgin church, Steeple Ashton, is an extraordinary building, described by author Simon Jenkins (England's Thousand Best Churches) as a 'fairy castle'). It is perhaps one of the finest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in England. Hang on, scratch the 'perhaps'; it IS one of the finest examples of this style of medieval architecture. It is an architectural gem, and has been awarded a Grade I listing as an historic monument. The church consists of a nave with clerestory, chancel, north and south aisles, north and south porches, and a four-stage western tower embellished with crocketing and pinnacles. The church is first recorded in 1281, in terms that suggest it was in existence long before then. The embattled tower dates from the early 15th century. It was originally topped by a huge spire reaching 186 feet above the ground. The spire was struck by lightning in 1670, and again the following year, killing two workmen, and it was never replaced. Around the roofline are carved a number of fabulous gargoyles and other grotesque beings.