This beautiful and sublimely peaceful church is reputedly built on the site of where St. Aidan’s monastery originally stood. Parts of this building are the oldest on the island dating back to the 7th century - several hundred years before the nearby Norman priory was built. There are Saxon parts remaining , including a Saxon archway. Two 20th century stained glass windows celebrate St. Aidan & St. Cuthbert. The church was largely rebuilt in the 12th & 13 century, with the bell cote added in the 18th century. Your eye is drawn to a moving rustic elm sculpture by Fenwick Lawson ( 1999) which depicts hooded monks carrying the coffin of St. Cuthbert to the safety of Durham Cathedral. The atmosphere in this sacred place is like a long cool drink for a thirsty soul.

Said to stand on the site of the original island monastery, this is the oldest building on Holy Island and the only one on the island that has aspects of work from the Saxon period still incorporated. Quaint and unassuming church worth visiting. Atmospheric and charming religious gem.

What a beautiful church the inside is stunning with the stained glass being exceptional, the graveyard around the church is well cared for and a history in its self of the good and religious throughout the centuries. The history of the island only adds to the peaceful nature now relevant inside the church. You do not need to be religious to enjoy a visit which is free for all, but please show some respect when you are their I have visited the island a number of times and unfortunately this was the only year I that I observed people walking on graves to take photographs and even stealing bool marls from inside the church rather than pay at the 'honestly' box thankfully both were challenged and apologised for the mistake.....