Welcome to Contrary Life‘s new weekly feature. Each week we will be posting a new curiosity on the blog. We kick off with this “coffin stone” that we spotted whilst out walking in Grasmere…
According to the sign next to the stone:
Before “St Mary’s” Church in Ambleside was consecrated, coffins had to be transported along the “Corpse Road” from Ambleside 4km to “St Oswald’s” Church at Grasmere for burial. This route is now the present day bridle path to Rydal.
This stone along with others along the way was used for supporting the coffin while the bearers rested.
Another corpse road over Hunting Stile and Red Bank was used to bring coffins over for burial from Chapel Stile, Gt. Langdale, until “The Holy Trinity” Church and grave yard was consecrated in 1821.
We took a ramble along the “coffin road” ourselves, it’s a reasonably gentle walk and ideal for those who don’t have enough time or confidence to tackle any big walks. For those who like to reward exercise with a refreshing pint you can always end the walk at The Badger Bar in Rydal (as we did).
If you know of a curiosity that you think should be featured, then drop us an email with a picture and a few words to info@contrarylife.com. If you’ve spotted a quirky building, unusual architectural feature or some other random object on your travels around the UK then we want to hear from you!