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St Oswald’s Church
Names after the 7th Century Christian King of Northumbria who is said to have
preached on the site. St Oswalds was the parish church of Grasmere, Rydal and
Langdale, and each township had its own separate gate into the churchyard.
The current building dates from the 13th century and is probably erected on the
site of a wooded Saxon chapel. Inside the nave is split by wide pillars and has
a simple style with whitewashed walls contrasting against oak beams. The baptistery
window depicts St Oswald, whilst the East window is clear and gives superb views
of the fells beyond. Among the many items of interest in the church are a statue
of the Madonna and Child by Ophelia Gordon Bell, and a glass case containing William
Wordsworth’s prayer book.
Originally the floor of the Church was simply covered in rushes, and it was commonplace
to bury the bodies of the parishioners within the Church as well as the Churchyard.
At the Feast of Dedication on the Saturday nearest St Oswald’s Day (5 August)
parishioners brought rushes from Grasmere Lake to cover the floor, cleanse the
air and help keep out the winter cold.
Grasmere Lake
Grasmere lake was left behind by a retreating glacier ten thousand years ago, and once extended into the dip now containing the village. Although motorised craft are not allowed on the lake, it is possible to hire rowing boats in order to enjoy the views and the abundant bird life.
Alternatively there are several walks around the lake and the village, details of which can be found in the Tourist Information Centre.
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