The North Aisle

A general view of the north aisle

It is not easy to get a clear and unrestricted view of the north elevation of St. Helen’s church, due to the proximity of the boundary wall to the Old Rectory and to various trees and shrubs; however, the masonry to part of the north aisle can easily be seen close up.

"Rotherham Red" sandstone

Apart from a few blocks of dolomitic limestone used in the lowest parts of the east wall, the walling comprises roughly squared and coursed Rotherham Red sandstone - with no weathering details - and this would suggest that it is one of the older parts of the exterior of the church.

General views of the walling

Although the sandstone is distinctly salmon pink to orange in colour in places, the general style of the masonry is not too dissimilar to that seen in the adjoining chancel.

A view of the north aisle and clerestory

To my eye, the bold square headed window surrounds share much in common with those seen at a higher level in the clerestory, with no sign of dolomitic limestone having been used in their construction. Looking closely, some of the window surrounds, mullions and heads appear to have been restored relatively recently.

The north aisle and the chancel

Not too much is said about the age of the north aisle of St. Helen’s church, except a reference by English Heritage to the two northern 2-light windows with double-chamfered surrounds and to the east window, with its trefoil-headed light. 

A general view of St. Helen's church