St Andrews Church and The Bede House – Lyddington, Rutland

The stunning village of Lyddington, has long been a place I have visited, since moving to the East Midlands. Distinctive because of its ‘orange’ Ironstone buildings, it is the sister village to others such as Uppingham and Oakham – also in Rutland.

The two buildings photographed are fine examples of this unique stone.

St Andrews Church has particular historical importance, as it is attached to the neighbouring Bede House, once the Palace of Bishops. In contemporary records, there is mention of a church at Lyddington as far back as 1163, however, the current building most likely dates from the 14th Century.

The chancel and west tower were built by Bishop Burghersh, the nave and five bay arcades were bult in 1480, either by Bishop Russell or Bishop Smith, this is not clear. There are records to show that the roof was repaired in 1890, it is still possible to see the original roof line, as you enter the building. There was once a gallery within the church but this was removed in 1879.

A noted unusual feature in the church are the rails that surround the altar, these were installed in 1635. They differ from other examples elsewhere, in that they would normally be situated across the chancel, in front of the altar, rather than surrounding it. The church is usually open at the weekends should you wish to see it for yourself.

The Bede House, next door to St Andrews Church, was formerly the medievel wing of the Bishops Palace, for the Diocese of Lincoln. It has also served as Almshouses for the poor and infirmed. Passed to Thomas Cecil – son of  Chief Minister to Elizabeth I, William Cecil – in 1600, he converted the building into accomodation for 12 people, including 2 women, who were described as ” free from lunacy, leprosy and french pox ”.

Both buildings are breathtaking, well worth a visit, the Bede House is under the care of English Heritage, check their website for details of opening times.