Brampton Preservation Trust

To preserve for the benefit of the townspeople of Brampton and District the historical, architectural and constructional heritage in the area in the form of buildings of particular beauty or historical, architectural or constructional merit.

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2020_03_19 004 Brampton Old Church” by Alan Sawyer, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Brampton Preservation Trust

Brampton Preservation Trust is a registered charity founded in 1981 to serve the historic built environment of Brampton and its surrounding district. The Trust has over the years been involved in the stewardship of a number of notable local buildings, but today, the Trust's work is focused on a single remarkable site: Brampton Old Church, located approximately one mile from the town centre, which the Trust owns and maintains.

The church is one of the oldest ecclesiastical buildings in Cumbria, and the Trust works to keep it in good repair and its doors open to visitors, worshippers, and all who wish to experience this quietly extraordinary piece of local heritage.

All of the Trust's work depends entirely on the generosity of supporters, donors, and volunteers from the local community and further afield.

Upcoming Events

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For the most up-to-date programme, or to enquire about holding an event at the church, please contact the Secretary.

Meeting Minutes

Minutes are published here as PDFs following approval at the subsequent meeting. Meetings are open to all members.

September 2025

Council of Management Meeting

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December 2025

Council of Management Meeting

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January 2026

Council of Management Meeting

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March 2026

Council of Management Meeting

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Trustees

Brampton Preservation Trust is governed by a board of trustees who give their time voluntarily.

Tim Cheetham

Chair

Susie Davies

Secretary

Nick Davis

Treasurer

Maksymilian Loth-Hill

Trustee

David Moorat

Trustee

Contact the Secretary

For enquiries about the Trust, the church, events, or how to support our work, please get in touch with our Secretary.

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A Brief History of the Church

Brampton Old Church is among the most historically significant ecclesiastical sites in Cumbria, its origins stretching back over a thousand years. The building reflects centuries of architectural development, adaptation, and community stewardship.

Early 2nd C.

Early Site Use

The site was used by a Roman Auxiliary unit for about 25 years.

c. 12th C.

Early Origins

A place of Christian worship is believed to have been established on this site during the early medieval period, serving the scattered communities of the Brampton area. The first recorded mention of the church is in 1169.

1787-9

Dismantled

The main structure of the church is dismantled, and the stones relocated to the town for use in altering the Almshouse Chapel there into a Parish Church. The old entrance remains standing for use as a mortuary chapel.

1861

Extension

The church is extended at its eastern end and a porch added to the west.

1891

Restoration

The church is restored at a cost of £150.

1938

Monument Status

The church is given scheduled monument status.

1978

Redundancy

The church is declared redundant by the Church of England.

1987-88

Restoration

The church, now in a state of disrepair and with serious structural problems, is acquired by the Brampton Preservation Trust and restoration is carried out at a cost of £40,000 funded by English Heritage.

Today

Continuing Care

The Trust continues its work of maintenance, repair and advocacy, keeping the church open and accessible to all who wish to visit.

Support Our Work

Brampton Old Church is maintained entirely through voluntary effort and the generosity of supporters. There are several ways you can help us continue this vital work.

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Donate

A financial contribution of any size makes a direct and lasting difference to the conservation of the church. Donations can be made by contacting the Treasurer or through the collection box in the church.

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Volunteer

We welcome volunteers to help with cleaning, maintenance, open days, and special events throughout the year. No specialist skills required, just enthusiasm.

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Spread the Word

Share news of the church and Trust with friends, family, and community groups. Awareness is among the most valuable resources we have.

To discuss any of the above, please email the Secretary.