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Grid ref NY 226287
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he present building dates from pre-Norman times, and stands by a busy stream
in the grounds of Mirehouse by Bassenthwaite Lake.
he font is dated about 1300 and has an octagonal lead-lined bowl. The 14th
century lead crucifix hanging over the pulpit is similar to one in St. Albans Cathedral.
There is a wrought iron hourglass used to time sermons. Historical families of the area
including the Speddings of Mirehouse are remembered in various tablets and windows.
ord Alfred Tennyson stayed at Mirehouse in 1835 while he was
writing his poem 'Morte D'Arthur' and St Bega's Church inspired the opening lines:
| '..to a chapel nigh the field, A broken chancel with a broken cross, That stood on a dark straight of barren land,'. |
small distance along the shore you will find a simple open-air theatre
erected by the Tennyson Society at the place where it is thought he composed much of the
poem.
booklet describing the history of the church can be obtained from the Dodd
Wood Old Sawmill Tearoom.
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