Description of the Church
The Nave is the body of the Church and has north and south arcades of three bays, with two centre-arches of two orders. The older circular western columns possess fine moulding of capitals, bases and responds. Above, the clerestory has square headed window which serve to illuminate the nave. Higher still, is the nave roof, 15th century, with bosses carrying the arms of the Neville family.
The South Aisle Wall carries memorials. One is to William Bearcroft (1763-1830), an "untaught man of science", a Kirkby teacher for 36 years. Others ecall William Robinson, a 19th century brewer of Keldholme; P C Sherbrooke 17 years Master of Sinnington Hounds; artist Temple Moor, responsible for much of the wodwork in the Church, and Vicar Edmund Gray. The attractive stained glass window memorialises E M Burch and F J Clarke, both recent benefactors, but recalls earlier patrons, with its colourful portrayal of the Neville and Mowbray family arms. A small inset shows Kirkby Church as it was in 1790.
The Chancel, the priest's part of the church, is large due to a 19th century reconstruction. The much altered chancel arch still contains some mediaeval stonework, and in the south wall are two early round headed windows, which have been reset. The outer wall carries carved heads, and other old masonry can be picked out. The windows are thought to be of the same date as the Lady Chapel at York Minster. The 14th century sedilia, or stone seats, and the old piscina or wash bowl hav both been restored. Stained glass in the east window was donated by Earl feversham in 1907. the fine chancel screen by Temple Moore is a memorial to the fallen in the First World War. At the side of the sanctuary is the Bishop's Chair, dated 1659. By the altar rail is the brass plate to "my Lady Brooke" with its Tudor costumes and interesting inscriptions.
The South Chapel or Vestry is not open to visitors, but does contain a small portion of mediaeval stained glass believed to represent the face of "God the Father"
The Tower was rebuilt above the ground stage in 1802, and is strengthened with buttresses in 1874. Nearby is a quaintly worded plaque to the Hobson family who were squire of Kirkby in the 18th century. There are old painted commandment tablets and, in the upper chambers, plaques rcording the church charities at that time. The bells were recast in 1936 at the expense of Captain and Mrs Holt.
The Porch is a large 15th century barrelled porch, its stone said to have come from the Hildenley quarry. There are numerous mason's marks scratched in the stones, and grooves made by tool sharpening on either side of the doorway. Outside is a mass-dial, and above the roof is the old parvise or priet's chamber with fireplace and square window. On anearby shelf is the 10th century wheel-head cross of the early church. carved with plaiting and chevrons.
Outside the Church is an old sundial, more than 150 years old.The gates to the churchyard from crown Square were erected in 1767. The Cross, by Temple Moore was unveiled in 1920 and carries a memorial to those of the parish who fell in two world wars.
