Description of the Church
This beautifully sited Church is famed for the unique "surprise view" which churchgoers since the 12th century have enjoyed from the east end of its yard. The building as it now stands is largely the work of the mason who carried out the reconstruction of 1802, but there are many older features. This craftsman is recorded by an unusual wall plaque on the outer south wall of the Church. Close by is the gravestone of an early Methodist preacher, while other memorial slabs in the yard carry finely etched copper plates, similar to those used on old grandfather clocks, preserving the memory of other 18th century men of Gillamoor. One carries a text in Hebrew characters.
The church comprises a nave and chancel under a single roof, but as a defence against high winds has no north or east windows. The visitor should look for the 17th century communion table, once at the parish church; the inscriptions of the churchwardens of those times; the 18th century communion rails, the painted tables of commandments, and of benefactions to the Poor of Gillamoor and Fadmoor. The reredos, screen, panelling and lectern were all installed in 1908, and the pipe organ was moved here from Fairburn Church in 1959. For many years, the dedication of this Church was forgotten but the building was reconsecrated to St Aidan in 1927. The memorial west window, given by Mr and Mrs H Holt, portrays Aidan with the other local Saint - Hilda.
