St Margaret & St James

The Dufton building, constructed before the Norman era, is a remarkable architectural masterpiece crafted from red sandstone. One of its most striking features is the intricately carved hammer beam chancel ceiling, a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the period. The building also boasts an 11th-century tower, adding a touch of historical significance and grandeur to its overall structure. In addition to these, the Dufton building is home to some unique architectural elements. One of these is the unusual tympana, a rare and interesting feature that adds to the building's distinct character. The structure also includes a dual sedilla, a type of seating typically found in churches, which further enhances its historical and architectural value. Moreover, the building houses a piscina, a shallow basin placed near the altar of a church, used for washing the communion vessels. This element not only adds to the building's aesthetic appeal but also provides a glimpse into the religious practices of the time. In summary, the pre-Norman Dufton building, with its red sandstone construction, carved chancel ceiling, 11th-century tower, unusual tympana, dual sedilla, and piscina, is a remarkable architectural and historical treasure.