The Setting
Penistone is located at the foot of the Pennines and is surrounded by beautiful and historic landscape which is well worth exploring on the ground. You can walk along old tracks and find packhorse bridges, guide stroops and lines of flagstones, known as causeys.
Some of the farms have been occupied since at least the 13th century and sometimes you can find timber-framed farmsteads and barns, usually encased in later stone walls and slate roofs but exposed for all to see at the magnificent 16th century barn at Gunthwaite.
Fine 17th century gable halls can be found in Ingirchworth, Waterhall and
Bullhouse; Thurlstone has rows of weavers' cottages with windows all the way along the top storey, the best being and early 19th century example at Tenter Hill.
Of course, there's plenty of unbuilt, open countryside too such as the moors at Langsett, where you can walk for hours and not meet anyone.
There are several reservoirs & woodland in the area offering tranquil retreats and spectacular views. With a landscape so rich and varied Penistone is sure to have something for everyone.
St. John's Church, Penistone
There's evidence that Christianity Came to Penistone well over a thousand years ago.
St. John's Church has the remains of a Saxon cross and was no doubt built in wood before being rebuilt in stone during medieval times and becoming the chief centre for Christian worship, education and society in Penistone.
More information about St. John's Church and the four other C of E churches in the parish can be found on Penistone and Thurlstone Team Ministry website: www.penistonecofe.co.uk
The Penistone and Thurlstone Team Ministry website also features a virtual tour of the five Curch of England churches in the parish.