Irton with Santon is a scattered parish , along with the hamlets of Santon, Hall Santon, and Santon Bridge, nestled between the hills and the sea. About two miles long and one and a half miles wide it is bounded by the river Irt and Mite...the Irt at one time being famous for its pearl producing mussels...regretfully no more.
Evidence exists of an Anglo-Saxon settlement here dating the village more than a 1000 years old. In fact there has certainly been a church on the site of St Pauls Irton since the 13th century, being built on an elevated position with spectacular views of the Wasdale Valley. In the churchyard will be found an ancient Celtic 8th century 10 feet high sandstone cross, ranking only second to that wonderful cross at Gosforth.
This solid little church was re-fashioned last century and has a fine tower with an imposing turret above the battlements. Its eight bells must echo far and wide among these hills and vales. The tower archway is screened by attractive wrought iron gates, and the attractive chancel arch has black marble shafts.
Amongst its many memorials there is a marble tablet with cannon and anchor in memory of one Skeffington Lutwidge who commanded a ship in an expedition of polar discovery in 1773, and it is interesting to learn that serving under him on HMS Carcass was a certain 14 year old midshipman by the name of Horatio Nelson.
Approximately one mile away is the Manor House of Irton Hall...a mansion built around a pele tower. In the grounds is a huge oak tree where it is said Henry VI hid in 1464 when seeking refuge during the War of the Roses.. The Hall still has its embattled tower and some other remains of the 14th and 16th centuries.
Santon Bridge, located on the banks of the Irt at Bridge Inn is where the well known 'Biggest Liar Competition' is held annually. Santon Bridge is where the crystal waters of the River Irt come rushing over a rocky bed from Wastwater, the deepest of all the lakes.
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