The setting is incomparable, the church simple, the combination stunning. Known to locals (for reasons too arcane to explain here) as Ninekirks, the church sits at the end of a picturesque walk down a track from the A66. Nestled in a bend of the river Eamont, St Ninian's owes its existence to the redoubtable Lady Anne Clifford, who rebuilt the Norman original in 1660. Box pews, family pews with canopies, and a three-decker pulpit attest to the delicate and sensitive work of the Churches Conservation Trust. A visit to St Ninian's gives a memorable insight into the power of the church and the importance of faith in the life of 17th century people. read more