Felixkirk: Church, Howe Hill and Historic Buildings

Explore Felixkirk through its architectural history and an archaeological mound. At the Church of St Felix, the dated elements range from the 12th- to 13th-century features to the 1890 organ. Howe Hill offers a different focus, with its domed shape and archaeological classification. Listed buildings such as the stable block at Mount St John and the former school complete the picture of the village.

Church of St Felix: Architectural History and Features

The nave and chancel of the Church of St Felix date from the 12th to 13th centuries. A particularly well-dated feature is the chancel arch, from around 1125, which bears zigzag and beakhead ornament. The zigzag decoration forms a geometric pattern; beakhead refers to a distinct type of sculptural architectural ornament. The arch can therefore be viewed as an architectural detail, while the dating of the nave and chancel covers a broader period.

The apse also has its own architectural history: W Dykes restored and reconstructed it in 1859–1860. The church also contains the tomb of William de Cantilupe, who died in 1309. The organ was built in 1890. These dates relate to different parts and features of the church, so they cannot be reduced to a single date of construction.

Howe Hill and Its Archaeological Classification

The domed Howe Hill mound stands on the crest of a prominent rise in the centre of the village. It is 10 metres in diameter and about 1.5 metres high. Its description as a motte is considered incorrect. The mound’s classification therefore differs from a mere visual description of its shape: its archaeological significance and state of preservation also matter.

Howe Hill is considered to be well preserved. Tree roots may affect the archaeological deposits; nevertheless, the contents of the mound, including the burials, are expected to remain intact. This statement about preservation is an expectation, not a certainty about every detail. The church and the mound thus offer two different ways to explore Felixkirk: architectural and features history on the one hand, and an earthwork monument with its own archaeological classification on the other.

Listed Buildings in the Village

The stable block at Mount St John is a Grade II listed building in Felixkirk. It is built of regularly coursed sandstone with herringbone patterning. The date of 1746 is attributed to Pevsner. The material, surface treatment and attributed date are different clues to the description of the building, and do not refer to the same aspect of its history.

Felixkirk’s former school is also a Grade II listed building. It is now used as a village hall. Its central projecting entrance porch has a chamfered, Tudor-arched entrance. If you are planning to visit the building, check its current use beforehand. This will help you take its present-day function into account when planning, without confusing it with its former use as a school.

Cycling Route and Accommodation

National Cycle Route 65 passes Felixkirk and runs near the North York Moors. If you include the route in your travel plans, check its current course and conditions with the route operator. The Carpenters Arms pub is in Felixkirk and offers accommodation. It also serves a meal for visitors exploring the North York Moors. If you are planning to stay overnight or have a meal, check current availability.

Discover more destinations: Pickering, Cropton, Gilling East, Monk Fryston, Castleton, Cayton, Bolton Abbey, Cawood.

For the regional travel guide: North Yorkshire.